The DLSU Green Archers kept their title defense alive at the World University Basketball Series after a convincing victory over the Japan University Select Team.
The DLSU Green Archers are one win away from a successful World University Basketball Series title defense after blowing out the Japan University Select Team (JUBF), 88-75, at the Yoyogi National Stadium Second Gymnasium in Tokyo on Sunday.
After a close win over Chinese Taipei on Saturday, La Salle played inspired basketball against the home team and took a comfortable lead into the halftime break.
Buoyed by the electrifying offense of spitfire guard Kean Baclaan, the Green Archers blew the game wide open in the second period, outscoring their Japanese foes 22-7.
At the halfway mark of the match, La Salle was comfortably ahead, 41-24.
Despite a better third quarter from JUBF, where they got themselves within striking distance, La Salle was able to put out the fire and regain momentum each time.
By the time JUBF had a final run late in the fourth quarter, it was already too little too late for the hometown bets.
Baclaan finished with 18 points to pace La Salle, as three others also scored in double digits. Mike Philips ended up with a double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds.
Isikawa Kouki paced JUBF in the loss with 14 points.