LA SALLE sent a statement by grounding and pounding on Indonesian champion Perbanas Institute in a 46-point beatdown, 117-71, in the 2024 World University Basketball Series (WUBS) on Saturday in Tokyo, Japan.
Hoping to carry out archrival Ateneo’s title-winning exploits in 2022, the semifinals now await the Green Archers on Sunday against either defending WUBS champion National Chengchi University from Chinese Taipei or host side Nippon Sport Science University.
La Salle leaves no doubt
Kevin Quiambao-led La Salle pulled out all the stops from the get-go with a 30-point first quarter eruption that proved unassailable to the very end.
The reigning UAAP MVP fired a game-high double-double of 16 points and 16 rebounds in 21 minutes of play.
Michael Phillips pitched in 15 points and eight boards, while Taft newcomer Vhoris Marasigan was quick to make an impression with 14 points.
Returning champion duo JC Macalalag (12 points) and Raven Cortez (11 points) waxed hot, as Centro Escolar University transferee Henry Agunanne had himself a 13-point debut.
With a mixed-up deck of holdovers and incoming talents, the reigning UAAP champions stood strong with a 30-point cushion at the half.
The advantage ballooned even further in the final 20 minutes of play, as the Taft side went on to lead by as much as 49 points in the home stretch.
Topex Robinson’s wards got the job done with ease and now cruise to the semifinals of the three-day international collegiate meet.
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