Dela Rosa erupts with 29 points as Blue Eagles smother Lady Warriors

MANILA, Philippines — The season just started, but Kacey dela Rosa is dominating like it’s already the middle of the year. 

Two-time reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player dela Rosa flexed her muscles and led the way for Ateneo’s crushing of the University of the East Lady Warriors, 81-52, in their UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball matchup Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila. 

The 21-year-old dela Rosa, fresh off a stint with Gilas Pilipinas U23 in the FIBA 3x3 women’s series, finished with 29 points, nine rebounds, five steals, four blocks and a steal against UE. 

She shot an efficient 13-of-18 from the field, including 3-of-5 from the free throw line. 

But this snapped dela Rosa’s double-double streak, which spanned the entire Season 87. 

Ateneo head coach LA Mumar said that dela Rosa was actually unable to train with the team as she came off the Gilas stint. They also allowed the 6-feet-tall center to focus on her studies. 

“Kacey is plug and play. She’s been with us for four years, so we’re not worried. She just arrived the other day,” Mumar told reporters.

“I removed her early nga, hindi nga umabot ng 30. Pero hindi namin habol yun, ang habol namin, manalo kami ng championship,” she added. 

The game was close after the first quarter, with Ateneo leading by just three, 21-18. 

But a massive 24-9 bomb in the second frame gave the Blue Eagles a 45-27 lead, which they did not squander. 

Their lead grew to as much as 34 points, 79-45, after back-to-back shots by Monique Fetalvero. 

Ateneo’s Sarah Makanjuola chipped in 15 markers and 11 boards, as well as three steals, two assists and a block. Kate Cancio added 11.

Aliyah Ronquillo powered UE with 11 points while Rachel Lacayanga had 10. 

The Blue Eagles will try to make it two in a row as they take on the Adamson Lady Falcons next, while Lady Warriors aim to bounce back against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. Both games will be held on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.