Reigning MVP. Frontrunner in the UAAP Season 87 MVP race. Scoring leader. Kevin Quiambao simply does not miss for the De La Salle Green Archers after Round 1.
Several players have emerged as scoring leaders after Round 1 of the UAAP Season 87's men's basketball, helping their respective teams stay competitive in the early stages of the tournament.
Below are the top scorers and the top three-point shooters after Round 1, showcasing individual brilliance from some of the league’s best.
Top Scorers
#1 - Kevin Quiambao (DLSU Green Archers) - 16.43 PPG
Reigning MVP Kevin Quiambao continues to dominate the league, topping the scoring charts with an average of 16.43 points.
His scoring versatility has been key in De La Salle University’s successful 6-1 start, as he tied for the most three-pointers made with 16.
Quiambao also posted a respectable 31.37% accuracy from beyond the arc while shooting 70.37% from the free throw line.
The Green Archers' top scorer has been a pivotal part of their title defense as they finish Round 1 as the top seed.
[ALSO READ: La Salle's Kevin Quiambao builds healthy lead in UAAP Season 87 MVP race]
#2 - Mohamed Tounkara (UST Growling Tigers) - 14.0 PPG
Mohamed Tounkara has been a force inside the paint for the University of Santo Tomas, averaging 14.0 points and leading the league in 2-point field goals made (36) with a 56.25% shooting clip.
Although his three-point shooting has been limited (only four made), Tounkara’s strength lies in his inside game.
His free throw accuracy of 77.78% further boosts his efficiency, making him a critical piece for UST, who sits in fourth place at 4-3.
#3 - Nic Cabañero (UST Growling Tigers) - 13.57 PPG
Nic Cabañero, another key contributor for UST, ranks third in scoring with an average of 13.57 points.
UST's top scorer last season is still efficient in the paint, shooting 44.62% on 2-point field goals.
His partnership with Tounkara has helped UST remain competitive in the standings, as the Growling Tigers finished Round 1 with a respectable 4-3 record.
#4 - JD Cagulangan (UP Fighting Maroons) - 13.4 PPG
JD Cagulangan of the UP Fighting Maroons has been instrumental in their strong 6-1 start.
Making 13.4 points per game, Cagulangan has been reliable both as a scorer and playmaker (second in assists).
He is shooting 47.5% from inside the arc and remains a steady hand at the free throw line (76.92%).
A two-time Player of the Game for UP, Cagulangan's presence in the past two matches was sorely missed by the Fighting Maroons.
#5 - Jorick Bautista (FEU Tamaraws) - 13.14 PPG
Jorick Bautista rounds out the top five, averaging 13.14 points for FEU.
Despite the Tamaraws’ tough 1-6 record, Bautista delivered a breakout performance against the Ateneo Blue Eagles, sinking six triples to lead FEU to their first and only win.
His overall shooting efficiency has been solid, with a 40% conversion rate on 2-point field goals.
Top Three-Point Shooters
#1 - Kevin Quiambao (DLSU Green Archers) - 16 triples (2.29 per game)
Quiambao’s three-point shooting has been a crucial weapon for La Salle this season.
The reigning MVP leads the league with 16 triples in seven games, tying for first place. His ability to stretch the floor adds another dimension to his offensive game and makes him a constant threat from long range.
#1 - Wello Lingolingo (UE Red Warriors) - 16 triples (2.29 per game)
Matching Quiambao’s three-point prowess is Wello Lingolingo of UE.
Lingolingo’s sharpshooting helped the Red Warriors to a 5-2 start, including a memorable upset of defending champion La Salle, where he made six triples.
Lingolingo’s shotmaking is a vital part of UE’s offense--as shown by his buzzer-beater against the Adamson Soaring Falcons--and he will be key to their hopes of securing a Final Four berth.
With the first round wrapped up, these standout performers have set the tone for what promises to be an exciting second round of UAAP basketball. Whether it’s inside scoring, three-point shooting, or overall leadership, the top players in the league are making their mark as they fight for the top spots in the standings.
[NEXT: UAAP schedule: Must-watch games in Round 2 of Season 87]
[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]