ADAMSON University bested defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman 76-66 to secure the first Final Four berth in the UAAP Season 86 high school boys basketball tournament Sunday at The Arena in San Juan.
Justine Garcia, returning after missing the previous game due to an ankle injury he sustained a week ago, was solid in helping the Baby Falcons in securing their ninth win overall with 14 points, four assists and two steals. He also did not commit a single turnover in 23 minutes of action off the bench.
“Malaking bagay siya. Siguro mga, sabihin natin mga 40 percent or 35 percent ng opensa, nag-eevolve sa kanya. Nata-touch niya yung bola so kapag sa kanya, may positibong nangyayari,” said Adamson coach Mike Fermin on Garcia.
“Ang sabi lang namin sa kanya, as needed ka ha, kasi masakit pa ang paa niya. Actually, hindi pa siya 100 percent, sabi ko as needed. Pero tough guy, tough kid. Sabi niya: ‘Laro ako. Laro ako. Gusto kong maglaro.’ Sabi ko, kung maglalaro ka, kapag pumasok ka, hindi lang 80 percent, 100 percent ka. Yung paa niya, hindi pa ganoong ka-heal, medyo swollen pa. Nakita ninyo, 100 percent ang laro, nakakatuwa ang bata,” he added.
Vince Reyes, who led the Baby Falcons with 16 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals, was simply happy to see Garcia back in harness.
“Malaking tulong sa amin iyon kasi mas natutulungan niya kami at nakakapag-participate siya uli. Talagang inaasahan namin siya,” said Reyes.
Veejay Pre came through with 26 points and 10 rebounds while Dwyne Miranda chipped in 11 points, five boards, and three steals for the Baby Tamaraws.
In other games, UP Integrated School finally entered the win column with a come-from-behind 80-71 victory over University of the East.
