La Salle opens redemption drive, Ateneo finds clarity with Tab Baldwin’s return

Two traditional UAAP powerhouses began Season 88 on contrasting yet equally dramatic notes, as La Salle survived a late scare from Adamson, while Ateneo drew renewed energy from a long-awaited coaching decision before stunning FEU in overtime.

At the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, the Green Archers showed grit in the clutch to pull off a 60-58 escape against the Soaring Falcons.

Jacob Cortez played the role of closer, knocking down a decisive floater, grabbing a vital rebound, and setting up Mason Amos for a dagger three-pointer with 7.9 seconds left.

Mike Phillips imposed his will inside with a monster stat line of 17 points, 16 rebounds, four blocks, and three steals. Cortez added 16 points and four assists, while rookie Lebron Jhames Daep and Amos chipped in timely contributions.

“Adamson always gives us a good fight. They got what they wanted and we were right there where they want us to be,” said coach Topex Robinson, who acknowledged the Falcons’ relentless resistance in a game that came down to the final possessions.

Adamson had led 56-53 with just over three minutes left, but Cortez steadied La Salle, making sure the Archers’ redemption bid didn’t stumble out of the gate.

GREEN AND WINNING

Mike Phillips and the DLSU Green Archers launched their UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball campaign on a high note after withstanding the Adamson Soaring Falcons!#UAAPSeason88 #LegendsStartHere #StrengthInMotionHopeInAction pic.twitter.com/5N2bAJL22r

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 20, 2025

Hours earlier, in a storyline fitting of Katipunan lore, Ateneo received the clarity it had been longing for when university president Fr. Bobby Yap, S.J., surprised the Blue Eagles by announcing Tab Baldwin’s three-year contract renewal right after their pre-game mass.

“After the mass, our father president announced that coach Tab is staying for another three years. So I’m very happy for Coach Tab,” said young star Jared Bahay.

The timing could not have been better. With Baldwin’s future secured, Ateneo played with renewed fire, eventually prevailing over FEU in an 86-83 overtime thriller. 

Bahay shone brightest in the endgame, accounting for 16 of the Eagles’ last 20 points through his scoring and playmaking. He capped his performance with two cold-blooded triples in the extra frame, finishing with 13 points, five assists, and four steals.

The Blue Eagles had to weather a furious Tamaraw rally in regulation. FEU forced the extra period after leaning on veteran shooters and their size advantage inside, but Ateneo’s composure held. Baldwin’s system, known for its discipline and spacing, once again came to life in the crucial minutes.

For La Salle, it was about proving they could grind out wins. For Ateneo, it was about rediscovering belief. Together, the two rivals sent a clear message on opening weekend: the road to UAAP Season 88 supremacy still runs through Taft and Katipunan.

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