MANILA, Philippines - Jayvee Ferreria fired 26 points as Colegio de Sta. Monica downed Technological Institute of the Philippines, 65-57, in Game One of the ninth Universities and Colleges Athletic Association (UCAA) men’s basketball finals.
The 5-11 Ferreria delivered the goods in the last seven minutes to move the Cougars a win closer to nailing the crown at the Olivarez College Sports Complex gym in Sucat.
Earlier, Philip de la Cruz shot 21 points as the Olivarez College turned back La Salle-Dasmariñas, 82-72, for third place.
The 23-year-old Ferreria scored a triple, a putback and a drive to lead an 11-2 run in the last 5:08, steering the Cougars to a 57-52 advantage after trailing by four, 46-50, in the cagefest supported by Mikasa and Molten Balls.
The Cougars go for the crown against the Engineers in Game Two at the TIP-Casal gym starting 10 a.m. in Quiapo on Tuesday.
Jeff Morillo showed the way with 19 for the Engineers who entered the finals for the first time.