UE easily dispatches UP without Sumang

MANILA, Philippines – When the UE Red Warriors and UP Fighting Maroons last dueled in the first round of UAAP Season 77, University of the East easily took care of their opponents. 

When the two teams faced each other again on Saturday, August 16, the Red Warriors had to finish without Roi Sumang, who was held out due to the sprained ankle he suffered on Wednesday, August 13, against UST.

It didn’t matter, as UE once again made quick work of UP, 68-48, at the Araneta Coliseum.  

Charles Mammie had 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks, earning the best player of the game honor.  

“He was able to step up to the challenge,” UE head coach Derrick Pumaren said after the game about his starting center.  

“I will continue to do my job,” added Mammie. “Even if I get five minutes, I will do my job.” 

Dan Alberto, who stepped in for the injured Sumang, finished with 11 points. 

“We already planned it since yesterday. He was still not 100 percent. So there’s no need to rush him. I want him 100 percent when he starts playing,” Pumaren said of Sumang’s absence from the ball game.  

“He’ll he ready,” Pumaren answered when asked about his star player’s availability next game.  

Despite forcing UP to 21 turnovers, UE had 29 of their own, resulting to 17 points – something Pumaren is not pleased about.  

“With all due respect to UP, but throwing the ball 29 times is like throwing 29 possessions.”

A Kyles Lao bucket on the break started a mini run by the Fighting Maroons in the third quarter, which was soon followed by a layup and free throws from Moriah Gingerich. 

With their lead dwindling down, UE turned to Mammie, who continued to attack UP’s vulnerable interior defense and drew a trip to the free throw line. 

After which, the Red Warriors amped up the pressure of their press once again, taking advantage of UP turnovers to push their lead to 15 heading into the final period.  

“We know that we are still right behind the [top] four teams,” Pumaren added.  

“But as I’ve told the guys, we are trying to catch up with two, three, and four right now.” 

“We can’t afford to make mistakes. We’re trying to catch up.”

Mikee Reyes had 19 points for UP, which was coming off their first win in two years after beating Adamson last Saturday, August 9. Lao pitched in with 10 markers. 

Scores 

UE (68): Mammie 15, Alberto 11, Olayon 10, Javier 6, Galanza 5, Jumao-as 5, Charcos 4, Guiang 3, Arafat 2, De Leon 2, Varilla 2, Palma 1, Cudal 0, Derige 0

UP (48): Reyes 19, Lao 10, Vito 7, Asilum 4, Gallarza 2, Gingerich 2, Moralde 2, Harris 2, Juruena 0, Lim 0

Quarter Scores: 18-7, 32-24, 51-36, 68-48

– Rappler.com