The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons secured their spot in the FilOil EcoOil ECJ Preseason Cup finals by defeating the Far Eastern University Tamaraws with a score of 89-77. The intense game took place on Sunday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Francis Lopez, the reigning UAAP Rookie of the Year, led the Fighting Maroons with 22 points and seven rebounds in nearly 26 minutes of play. The first half of the game was closely contested, with UP holding a slim five-point lead at 43-38.
However, the Fighting Maroons surged ahead with a 15-4 run, extending their lead to 16 points at 58-42. Despite a comeback attempt by the Tamaraws, UP managed to maintain their lead and eventually sealed the victory with a comfortable margin.
JD Cagulangan contributed 13 points, nine assists, five rebounds, and four steals for UP, while Veejay Pre led the Tamaraws with 20 points.
UP will now wait to face the winner of the semifinal match between the Letran Knights and the La Salle Green Archers in the finals. Meanwhile, FEU will compete in the third-place game. The championship and bronze medal matches are scheduled for Wednesday at the same venue.
