UAAP: UP trounces Adamson in Cansino’s return

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1) — CJ Cansino showed everyone that he did not skip a beat in his hardcourt comeback as the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons rout the Adamson University Soaring Falcons, 68-51, in UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The senior cager missed the entirety of last season due to an ACL injury.

Cansino finished the match with 19 points on 50 percent shooting to go along with two rebounds.

Reigning league Most Valuable Player Malick Diouf had a monster outing with 20 points and 17 rebounds for the Fighting Maroons.

Following a close first half contest, the Fighting Maroons mounted a 17-5 run in the third frame to build a 48-30 advantage.

UP was just clicking on offense in the final frame while the Soaring Falcons felt the brunt of not having star guard Jerom Lastimosa, who is out indefinitely due to a knee injury he sustained during a preseason practice, on the floor.

Harold Alarcon added 10 points, which was highlighted by a hail mary half-court shot to end the opening quarter for the Fighting Maroons.

Matthew Montebon paced Adamson with 13 points and three rebounds.

UP will next clash with fellow opening weekend winner University of the East Red Warriors on Oct. 4, while the Soaring Falcons tackle the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers on the same day.