UNIVERSITY of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons guard Reyland Torres has been cleared to play in the UAAP Men’s Basketball Tournament Finals Game 3 on December 15 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Photo Courtesy: UAAP Media Group
Despite committing two unsportsmanlike fouls (UFs) and ejected in the Fighting Maroons’ 76-75 loss against the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers, Torres will still be available for Game 3.
Torres’ defensive presence and effective offense would undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Diliman-based squad, which extended its Game 2 losing streak last Wednesday.
The verdict
In a statement by the UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office, “Torres accumulated two unsportsmanlike fouls during the Fighting Maroons’ game against the De La Salle Green Archers on Wednesday, December 11.”
“The first unsportsmanlike foul occurred with 5:33 remaining in the third quarter, when Torres committed a UF category 2 (excessive, hard contact caused by a player in an effort to play the ball or an opponent) on EJ Gollena.”
“The second unsportsmanlike foul happened with 2:58 left in the game, when Torres attempted to stop a fast break,” the statement further mentioned.
The second UF committed by Torres was under category 4, which is described as an “illegal contact caused by the player from behind or laterally on an opponent who is progressing toward the basket” by the UAAP.
Torres, like Adamson Soaring Falcons’ Jhon Calisay on November 23, 2024, will be able to play in Game 3 due to the circumstances of his second foul.
One last FIGHT!
Nonetheless, the UP Fighting Maroons still have a chance to retain their crown. However, they should expect a more determined DLSU Green Archers, who are one game away from becoming back-to-back champions.
Despite going cold in the second half of Game 1, back-to-back UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao has been on a tear, carrying the Taft squad to a comeback triumph in Game 2 last Wednesday.
Photo Courtesy: UAAP Media Group
Quiambao had a strong fourth quarter, finishing with 22 points (7-for-14 shooting), nine rebounds, two assists, and a steal. Mike Phillips also recorded 18 points, 12 rebounds, and two steals.
In Game 2 of the Finals, UP’s Francis Lopez, JD Cagulangan, and Gerry Abadiano each scored 16 points, while Quentin Millora-Brown contributed 11 points.
The third and final game of the UAAP Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday will determine if UP completes their redemption tour or DLSU extends their league supremacy.
