La Salle books semifinal berth
De La Salle University strung its fourth straight victory and secured a Final Four seat at the expense of Adamson University, 54-48, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s basketball tournament yesterday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Lady Archers used an 11-6 run late in the fourth quarter to extinguish the fight out of the Lady Falcons on their way to advancing into the semis for the first time since Season 79.
La Salle raised its win-loss slate to 9-2. La Salle survived some scary moments when Adamson cut its once imposing 41-30 third quarter lead after Victoria Adeshina sank two charities to close the gap, 42-43, with 5:56 to go in the game.
La Salle countered with a decisive run ignited by Charmaine Torres’ free throws and making crucial defensive stops to preserve the win.
Torres led La Salle with 14 points along with seven rebounds and five steals while Fina Niantcho Tchuido contributed 10 points and 13 rebounds.
Defense was key for La Salle as it forced Adamson to commit 20 turnovers, which yielded 18 points. The Lady Archers also tallied 13 steals.
Victoria Adeshina finished with 20 points and 20 rebounds while Cris Padilla had 11 markers for the Lady Falcons, who dropped to 3-8 record.