UP Fighting Maroons trounce UE Red Warriors

(Fighting Maroon Paul Desiderio goes for a drive. Photo by Arvin Lim/ ABS-CBN sports)

University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons bamboozled the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 84-71, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball tournament on Sunday, September 17, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

UE had a nice start through the efforts of Clark Derige and Mark Molales and led by as much as 14 points in the first half.

The need for UP to bounce back triggered them to put the game on fast pace that soon left the Red Warriors at bay as Paul Desiderio erupted for 16 of his 28 points in the 3rd canto.

Fighting Maroon Paul Desiderio imposed his will by putting a career-best 28 points and pulling down nine rebounds while Ibrahim Outtara delivered a double-double of 14 markers and 18 boards.

Red Warrior Clark Derige 21 points and nine caroms went for naught in the loss.

The win puts the Fighting Maroon above .500, with a 2-1 record, while the Red Warriors remain winless in three games.

The UP Fighting Maroons will next face DLSU Green Archers on September 23 at the Mall of Asia Arena, while the UE Red Warriors will battle Ateneo Blue Eagles on September 24 at the same venue.