Back to earth: Champ UP rides hot 2nd half, halts undefeated Ateneo start

The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons secured an 83-69 victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the first Battle of Katipunan of the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, October 8. The defending champions capitalized on a dominant third quarter to pull away from their previously undefeated rivals.

With this win, UP improved to a 3-2 record, claiming solo fourth place and their first winning record of the season. Ateneo, now 4-1, shares the top spot with NU, while idle UST holds a 3-1 record. Key performances included Francis Nnoruka, who scored a season-high 28 points, with 15 in the decisive third quarter, along with 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Noy Remogat contributed 20 points and 8 assists but was ejected late in the game, risking a suspension. Harold Alarcon added 17 points, helping UP maintain momentum in the first half.

UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde emphasized the team's preparation and execution as crucial factors. After leading just 40-38 at halftime, UP unleashed a 23-8 run in the third quarter, highlighted by a Nnoruka dunk, to build a 63-46 lead that they maintained. For Ateneo, Shawn Tuano led with 17 points, and Kymani Ladi added 15 markers in their first loss of the season.