The UP Fighting Maroons' deep bench contributed 51 points, proving crucial in maintaining composure and securing a commanding victory over the Adamson Soaring Falcons in UAAP Season 87.
The UP Fighting Maroons remain undefeated in UAAP Season 87 after a tough battle against the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Saturday.
While the game was filled with struggles, especially in the first half, head coach Goldwin Monteverde credited the team's bench with the 69-57 victory.
With UP’s starters struggling to find their rhythm early on, the Fighting Maroons’ second unit provided the much-needed spark.
The bench contributed a staggering 51 points, outscoring the starters and keeping the team afloat. Harold Alarcon and Terrence Fortea led the way, finishing with 14 and 13 points, respectively.
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Monteverde emphasized the importance of the bench’s role in keeping the team composed.
“Actually, ‘yun ‘yung isang bagay na for me, as a team, parang pamilya 'yan eh. Siyempre, ‘yung mga kuya, first group namin was not doing well. At least we have each other's backs. Whoever comes in, we always try to execute to the best na ano pwede gawin for the team,” Monteverde shared during the post-game press conference.
The Maroons’ first-quarter woes were glaring, especially on offense. They struggled to convert shots, which allowed Adamson to take advantage, particularly from beyond the arc.
Monteverde admitted that the team’s execution was lacking in the first quarter.
“Well, sometimes, may mga game na ganun talaga. We were really trying to execute offensively noong first half, but then yung shots namin were not falling in,” Monteverde explained.
Adamson's barrage of three-pointers also put pressure on UP, but Monteverde and his squad stuck to the game plan, believing their shots would eventually fall.
The team’s mental toughness shone through as they refused to let the early deficit affect their confidence.
Despite Adamson's hot start, Monteverde praised his team’s ability to stay composed, emphasizing this game was a reminder of how crucial mental resilience is for the Fighting Maroons.
“Sa team naman, usually we talk about how we respond sa challenges. And I believe for this game, we responded well,” Monteverde said. “Games like this would happen. Good thing, composure namin nandyan.”
With their undefeated record intact, UP’s resilience and bench depth will be crucial as they progress through the season.
Up next for the Fighting Maroons will be the UST Growling Tigers on Wednesday, October 2 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.