De La Salle University 3x3’s Luis Pablo against Ateneo de Manila University in UAAP Season 88 3x3 basketball. UAAP Media.MANILA — Luis Pablo flexed his might to steer De La Salle University to its fourth straight championship in UAAP men’s 3x3 basketball.
The 6-foot-6 Pablo willed his way inside as the Green Archers took down rival Ateneo de Manila University, 21-18, in a highly physical Finals match to rule the Season 88 edition of the halfcourt sport.
“Talagang nag-prepare kami para dito,” said Pablo, the Season 88 men’s 3x3 Most Valuable Player (MVP), who had a game-high 13 points on top of nine rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block.
Pablo even threw down a strong one-handed jam that shifted the momentum in their favor after the Green Archers trailed earlier in the match, while Earl Abadam and JC Macalalag contributed five and three points, respectively, to seal the win.
On the other hand, Shawn Tuano led the Blue Eagles with eight points, five rebounds, and four assists, followed by Drew Bongo with four markers. Third Ebdane and Alden Cainglet also scored three points each for Ateneo.
Meanwhile, National University overcame Adamson University, 17-13, in the battle for third, as Paul Francisco finished with eight points to secure the podium finish.
Noah Pacquiao led the fourth-placed Soaring Falcons with six points, eight rebounds, and a block.
In the women’s side, University of Santo Tomas emerged triumphant over Far Eastern University, 21-11, to clinch the 3x3 crown.
Coi Danganan led the Growling Tigresses with nine points, 11 rebounds, and one block. Season 88 women’s 3x3 MVP and graduating star Kent Pastrana, along with Brigette Santos, scored five points each, while Erin McClary added two.
Victoria Pasilang led the Lady Tamaraws with six points.
In the battle for third, Ateneo, behind Kacey Dela Rosa, defeated Adamson, 16-14, with the Gilas Pilipinas star tallying 12 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists.
Gilas standout Elaine Etang led the Lady Falcons with eight points in the loss.