JD Cagulangan powers UP Maroons past UE Red Warriors

JD Cagulangan led the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons to an 81-71 victory over the University of the East Red Warriors in the UAAP Season 87 men's basketball tournament.

Cagulangan, in his final year, scored 21 points with five three-pointers, seven rebounds, and four assists, sinking eight baskets from 14 tries.

Mark Belmonte and Harold Alarcon contributed 9 points each, while Francis Lopez, Jacob Bayla, and Dikachi Ududo added 7 points apiece for UP.

The Fighting Maroons secured a wire-to-wire victory, establishing a 19-point lead by halftime and extending it to as much as 27 points in the third quarter.

However, UP struggled in the fourth quarter, only scoring 12 points and allowing UE to attempt a comeback, though Cagulangan's earlier performance was enough to secure the win.

This win marks the second consecutive victory for the Fighting Maroons early in the season, giving them a 2-0 start.

UP is now tied with La Salle Green Archers and UST Growling Tigers for the early lead in the standings.