By MARK REY MONTEJO
La Salle started slow and paid dearly for it as it bowed to Korea University, 95-85, in the finale of the 2025 World University Basketball Series at the Yoyogi National Stadium in Tokyo, Japan Monday, Aug. 11.
Unable to make their shots early on, the Archers found themselves trailing the Koreans by 24 points.
But with Mikee Phillips leading the fightback, the Archers managed to close in on
, 79-91, with more than a minute left.
La Salle was able to convert in the following seconds but the separation was bigger than the seconds left on the shot clock, resulting in Korea U fulfilling its sweet revenge against the Taft-based squad.
Last year, the once Kevin Quiambao-led team went unblemished and captured its first WUBS title after defeating the Seoul-based school, 101-86, in the final round.
The 6-foot-8 Philipps produced another superb performance with 30 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block.
Keann Baclaan and Jacob Cortez provided the support offensively with 18 and 13 points, respectively, as the two are getting closer for their official UAAP debut as members of the Green Archers.
Kichan Yun paced Korea U after scoring 20 of his 26 points in the first two frames, while Moon Yu Hyeon added 21.
In the prior stages, La Salle survived Chinese Taipei’s National Chengchi University (89-84) in the first round then notched an 88-75 semifinal win over Japan University Select Team.
With vengeance as part of its mission, Korea U wasted no time and went full throttle to seize a sizable 55-28 lead that added to La Salle’s woes as it already posted 11 turnovers before the break.
The hopes of regaining the momentum went to life as the Green Archers started out swinging with Phillips capping off the blitz off an offensive rebound and a jam, 79-91. Unfortunately, it was their last assault as time became their biggest enemy.
Meanwhile, Nippon Sport Science University turned back compatriots University selection, 86-72, to claim the bronze.
