DEFENDING champion University of the Philippines passed its initial test in the 85th UAAP basketball tournament but coach Goldwin Monteverde is far from satisfied.
“I think we have to be more organized in our succeeding games,” Monteverde said after the Fighting Maroons launched their bid for a second straight title with a 72-69 squeaker over La Salle on opening day four days ago.
“This is our first game, but there’s no reason for us to play in a situation like that,” he added.
UP’s resolve will be tested anew when it faces Adamson University today as action resumes at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
The match is set at 1 p.m. after Far Eastern University and University of the East try to crash the winner’s circle when they square off at 11 a.m.
Ateneo seeks a second win in as many games against dangerous National University in the nightcap at 6:30, while University of Santo Tomas tackles La Salle at 4:30.
Maroons prized big man Carl Tamayo is hoping they will take the lessons learned the last time out to heart.
“Siguro nag-show sa game na marami kaming kailangan i-prove, kailangan mabago namin, maging consistent kami and I think marami kaming natutunan sa game na madadala namin (sa mga susunod),” Tamayo said. “Simula pa lang ng season, so iyong mga natutunan namin ngayon madadala namin hanggang matapos iyong liga.”
Aside from Tamayo, UP will also lean on Terrence Fortea, Malick Diouf, James Spencer, and Zavier Lucero.
The Soaring Falcons dropped a 60-69 loss to the Growling Tigers last Saturday.
Jerom Lastimosa, Lenda Douanga, Joshua Yerro, and Joem Sabandal will be counted upon by Adamson.
The Blue Eagles began their redemption drive with a 79-70 triumph over the Tamaraws three days ago.
Rence Padrigao, naturalized Filipino center and reigning MVP Ange Kouame, Dave Ildefonso, and BJ Andrade will carry the fight for Ateneo.
The Bulldogs, coming off a 77-70 decision over the Red Warriors, will pin their hopes on John Lloyd Clemente, Jake Figueroa, Patrick Yu, and Michael Malonzo.
