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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Collegiate devider 'God guided us': Archers savor Season 88 victory

'God guided us': Archers savor Season 88 victory

Published Dec 18, 2025 01:50 pm

At A Glance

  • Caught defenseless against a storm of flops and injuries in the elimination round, one thing remained firm in the heart and soul of the Archers — their faith.
Caught defenseless against a storm of flops and injuries in the elimination round, one thing remained firm in the heart and soul of the Archers — their faith.
It all paid off when De La Salle completed a sweet revenge against University of the Philippines in front of a mammoth Araneta crowd Wednesday night, Dec. 17, scoring a 80-72 win in Game 3 to end it all and win the crown back in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament.
“Our adversities really strengthened our faith and this series is a journey worth remembering,” said mentor Topex Robinson, who was named the Coach of the Year. “And we’ve just relied on one another and let God guide us.”
Pushed to their limits to gain the last Final Four spot, De La Salle erased a twice-to-beat disadvantage and eliminated National University to book its finals return and a rematch against familiar foe the Archers had been dealing with in the last three seasons.
If it wasn't for the early injuries of Kean Baclaan and Mason Amos, the Green Archers could have avoided such a difficult task.
But God has other plans.
“We’ve worked hard for this moment, and I’m glad we’ve achieved it,” said Mike Phillips after putting up an incredible outing in the rubber match, tallying 25 points, 18 rebounds, one assist, and one block.
Emotions, as expected, flowed inside the Big Dome.
Jacob Cortez, who tossed the game ball to his father, Mike, as the buzzer sounded, was just as grateful for the opportunity to play in front of their adoring fans.
The cat-quick guard vowed to win for his dad who was a former Archer himself.
“It’s just worth it, I’m glad we stick together despite the challenges we faced throughout the season,” said Cortez, who is now a UAAP and an NCAA champion. “Just like the song of Bob Marley: Every little thing is gonna be alright.”
With Phillips' departure, Cortez, Amos, and Baclaan are expected to lead the Archers’ two-peat quest in Season 89.
“That’s the main goal, mag back-to-back,” added Baclaan.

Related Tags

La Salle Green Archers UP Fighting Maroons UAAP Season 88 Topex Robinson Jacob Cortez
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