Adamson survives meltdown, deals University of the East 26th loss

MANILA, Philippines — Adamson did it the hard way versus University of the East.

After erupting for 54 points in the first half, the Soaring Falcons went ice-cold in the third, then recovered just in time to repulse the Red Warriors, 71-64, and stretch UE’s misery to 26 straight defeats in UAAP men’s basketball yesterday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Falcons, who came in averaging just 68.75 points in their first four games, looked like a different team early, burying UE under a 22-point lead behind Matt Erolon, Ray Allen Torres and Mathew Montebon.

Then came the collapse.

Adamson scored just three points in the entire third quarter, allowing UE to claw back to within 57-49 entering the fourth.

Nash Racela’s boys woke up just in time, punching in six quick points in the first 1:08 of the final period to rebuild a 63-49 cushion and never looked back.

“We weren’t really surprised with how UE played in the second half because I always remind my players that UE is also due for a win. They’ve been playing a lot better the last three games... So I’m really challenging our players to do a lot better,” said Racela.

“I think we played really really soft in the third... Wala umatras na lang ako. I didn’t coach them in the fourth quarter. Alam naman nila yung dapat gawin and they responded positively,” he added.

The win got Adamson back on track at 3-2 heading into a brutal closing stretch of the first round.

Torres led the way with 17 points, three rebounds and three assists, while Nigerian big man Precious Jonah imposed his will with 14 points, seven boards, three steals and a block.

Later, UP fended off reigning champion La Salle’s comeback from 14 points down, pulling off an 80-76 win to snap a two-game skid and gain a share of third spot at 3-2. The Green Archers slid to 3-3.