UP takes down Ateneo in OT to inch closer to first title in 36 years

Something historic is brewing for the University of the Philippines.

The Fighting Maroons inched closer to ending its 36-year title drought as it took down Ateneo de Manila University, 81-74, in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 84 Finals at the Mall of Asia Arena.

A triple from James Spencer forced the game into overtime, 70-70, and UP's tough defense on Ange Kouame failed to give the big man a shot at the basket in the dying seconds of the game.

UP then rode their momentum in the extra period en route to their first win in the finals since they captured the title in 1986.

Ricci Rivero tallied a game-high 19 points, while Zavier Lucero registered a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Malick Diouf also had 10 points and 15 rebounds. Spencer listed 13 points in the UP win.

Meanwhile, Ange Kouame had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while SJ Belangel and Raffy Verano added 17 points each.

The best-of-three finals will return on Wednesday as Ateneo will try to hold on to their championship defense bid. Should UP seal the deal on the said day, it will be their first championship since 1986.

UP made it to the UAAP finals and fought for the title in 2018, but Ateneo prevailed for the Blue Eagles' then second straight championship.

—MGP, GMA News