Manila – De La Salle University's Lady Archers concluded their UAAP Season 86 women's basketball campaign with a victory, defeating University of the East 58-45 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Leading the charge for the Lady Archers was Lee Sario, who scored 18 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out four assists, helping her team finish the season with a 7-7 record. Bernice Paraiso contributed with 14 points and 18 rebounds, while Ann Mendoza added 10 points, three assists, and two steals.
Coach Cholo Villanueva expressed pride in his team's progress, noting the significant improvement from their first-round performance. "The theme for this year is learning, improving and not making the same mistakes," Villanueva said. He emphasized the team's momentum heading into Season 87 and the energy derived from their second-round achievements.
Arabela Dela Rosa of the University of the East Lady Warriors showcased her long-range shooting prowess with four three-pointers, two of which came in a crucial fourth quarter. Despite Dela Rosa's efforts, which included 13 points, five rebounds, and two assists, the Lady Warriors couldn't close the gap, trailing 42-49 with less than five minutes left.
In another match, Adamson University snapped a three-game losing streak by defeating Far Eastern University 71-60, securing the sixth place with a 4-10 record. Crisnalyn Padilla led Adamson with 18 points, while teammates Elaine Etang, Cheska Apag, and Victoria Adeshina each scored double digits. Coach Ryan Monteclaro, in his first season handling Adamson, reflected on the team's growth and the establishment of their identity.
FEU's Josee Kaputu put up a valiant effort with 25 points and 20 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to avoid a seventh-place finish with a 3-11 slate.
The semifinals, starting Wednesday, will feature seven-time defending champion National University and University of Santo Tomas. Top-seeded NU is set to face No. 4 Ateneo, while UST will battle the University of the Philippines. NU aims to continue its dominance, having swept La Salle in the Season 85 finals.