JD Cagulangan’s game-winning three-pointer with 0.5 seconds remaining ended. The University of the Philippines’ 36-year title drought thwarted Ateneo’s pursuit of a four-peat.
Cagulangan delivered the biggest shot of his collegiate career to help the Fighting Maroons defeat the Blue Eagles 72-69 in extra time in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball Finals on May 13 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Cagulangan and Season 84 Finals Most Valuable Player Malick Diouf conspired down the stretch to help the Maroons win their first championship since 1986 when UP, led by Benjie Paras, Ronnie Magsanoc, and Eric Altamirano.
“I’m extremely thrilled right now,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde after the Maroons defeated SJ Belangel. Scored 27 points on 10-of-17 shooting with four assists and three assists. Belangel also had four assists and three assists. “I appreciate the UP community. I would also like to praise the Lord God for this victory.”
Cagulangan turned the tide for the Maroons with 13 points and five rebounds. Also, four assists, compensating for his poor 4-of-12 shooting and three turnovers. Diouf led UP in scoring with 17 points, nine rebounds, and three steals. While CJ Cansino scored 14 points on the strength of four three-pointers.
Cagulangan, the past NCAA Juniors Most Valuable Player, coordinated a critical move that allowed the Maroons to tie the game at 69 in extra time, when they were trailing by two points, 69-67.
Cagulangan took his time on an isolation play before finding Diouf cutting through
The baseline for a slam by the Finals Most Valuable Player. The Butuan, Philippines, native’s three-pointer and layup off a Belangel turnover to answer Gian Mamuyac’s corner three-pointer earlier in the extra five minutes was unquestionably decisive.
Even though the Maroons trailed by three points with 56.7 seconds remaining. Cansino just needed one three-point shot to turn the tide before the end of regulation.
Ateneo used a 9-0 run highlighted by Belangel’s pair of free throws. To turn a six-point deficit into a 59-56 advantage. However, Cansino was already red-hot from the arc and took a difficult shot at the top of the key. Also, sank it off the glass for a 59-59 tie with 47.8 seconds remaining.
The subsequent play was another rollercoaster when Gerry Abadiano missed a three-pointer. Also, Belangel drove coast-to-coast before missing a tough layup.
The 84th season’s most valuable player, the Eagles, were led by Ange Kouame with 12 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and one steal, while Mamuyac contributed 10 points, six rebounds, and three assists.
Read more: Heat is coming back to the East finals hinges on their defense
For the bettors who want to wager find an OKBET sports betting which is safest and legal here in the Philippines.
