MANILA, Philippines — University of the Philippines came through with some measure of revenge versus UAAP Season 86 finals conqueror La Salle, clawing back from a 20-point deficit to win the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
The Fighting Maroons staged a searing second-half comeback behind a bevy of heroes and pulled off a great 69-66 victory for their second straight title in the staple preseason tourney featuring all UAAP and NCAA squads.
UP settled for a bridesmaid finish to La Salle in the last UAAP season.
But not this time with JD Cagulangan showing the way with 13 points laced by five rebounds, four assists and a block, including the clutch bucket in the last 34 seconds to give UP a 68-65 lead.
Gerry Abadiano also played instrumental for State U, pouring all of his 12 points in the second half, helping fuel the Fighting Maroons fightback from 23-43 down at the half.
Earlier, Far Eastern University ushered in a new era with a bang, claiming the bronze medal at the expense of Letran, 80-78.
The Tamaraws, under the watch of new head coach and legendary PBA import Sean Chambers, blew a 17-point lead but recovered in time to salvage a podium finish.
FEU skipper Jorick Bautista tallied 21 points, three rebounds and three assists.