December 10, 2025

La Salle escapes UP in Game 1, inches closer to UAAP Season 88 title

La Salle escapes UP in Game 1, inches closer to UAAP Season 88 title
Jacob Cortez led the way for the DLSU Green Archers as they take Game 1 of the UAAP Season 88 Finals. | Photo: UAAP

De La Salle University finally struck first in the UAAP Finals, defeating the University of the Philippines, 74-70, to take Game 1 of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball championship series on Wednesday, December 10, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Game 1 victory also marked La Salle’s third straight win over UP this season, after nabbing both of their elimination-round matchups.

The Green Archers leaned on the steady scoring and late-game poise of Jacob Cortez, who finished with a team-high 21 points to power La Salle to a 1–0 lead in the best-of-three series.

DLSU now moves one win away from reclaiming the UAAP crown, with Game 2 scheduled for Sunday, December 14, still at the MOA Arena.

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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.

Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.

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