De La Salle University celebrates after winning the UAAP Season 87 men's 3x3 basketball tournament, May 4, 2025 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque. UAAP Media
MANILA -- De La Salle University completed a remarkable run to the championship in the UAAP Season 87 men's 3x3 basketball tournament on Sunday, stunning University of Santo Tomas, 15-12, in the final at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.
The Green Archers entered the Final 4 as the No. 4 seed, having started the tournament with a 1-2 record before switching Vhoris Marasigan for veteran Earl Abadam on Day 3 of the competition.
The move worked wonders, as they entered the playoffs with a 4-3 record before stunning top-seeded National University, 17-14, to enter the finals.
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"I just want to be a leader by example to my teammates. Just wanted to show that nothing can hold you back if you want it," said Abadam.
"There's a proverb in the Bible that says, 'As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.' If you want something, you can achieve it."
In the championship match, La Salle jumped to an early 11-6 lead and never looked back.
UST's Amiel Acido, a rookie from Perpetual Help, tried to mount a comeback by trimming the lead to three, 15-12, with 1:39 remaining. But the Archers locked in on defense and held on to secure their third straight men's 3x3 title.
"Man, it's surreal. Three championships with La Salle is just something that kids only dream of. By God's grace, we are here," said Abadam, who also has one 5-on-5 championship under his belt and is now a two-time 3x3 champion.
Doy Dungo, who was later named MVP, led the way with seven points, while Abadam added four points and five rebounds. Acido led UST with eight points in the losing effort.
UST advanced to the finals after outlasting Adamson in the semis, 16-14.
In the men's bronze medal match, Ray Allen Torres hit the game-winner with 9:52.2 remaining, lifting Adamson to a 21-20 win over NU.