UP uses a strong 2nd half to keep UE winless.

UP relied on Paul Desiderio once again to pull away from UE, 84-71 in UAAP Season 80 men's basketball tournament Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

It was UE who started the game strong led by Derige to take a 9 point advanatge in the 1st qtr.

UP made a run of their own down by to took the lead by virtue of 4 pt play. Then UE made blitz run to close the half, 42-38.

UP started the 3rd qtr 15-6 to take an early 53-48 advantage. They outscored UE in the 3rd qtr 26-7 with Paul Desiderio scoring 16 of those.

Since that, UP never looked back and even extend their lead as high as 23 points.

Paul Desiderio finished with career high of 28 points along with 10 rebounds. Ibrahim Quattara chipped in with a double double performance of 14 points and 18 rebounds.

Clark Derige led the way for UE with 21 points.

UP' s record is now 2-1 and will try to extend their winning way against DLSU on Saturday. Meanwhile, UE still winless at 0-3 and will look to get their victory against ADMU on Sunday. (c/o Kim Karlo Castro)