The DLSU Green Archers edged out the ADU Falcons in a thrilling 85-82 victory at the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup on June 14, 2026. In a game that came down to the final possessions, La Salle’s composure under pressure proved decisive as they handed the Falcons a narrow defeat in this early-season basketball showdown.

Match Overview

Played at the Filoil Flying V Centre, the contest lived up to its billing as a tightly contested rivalry match. Both teams traded leads throughout the second half, but it was the Green Archers who executed better in crunch time. With the score tied at 82-all in the final minute, DLSU’s veteran guard sank a step-back three-pointer to put his team ahead, and a last-second heave by ADU fell short, sealing the 85-82 result.

Key Moments

• First Half Surge: ADU started strong, taking a 44-40 lead into halftime behind hot shooting from beyond the arc.
• Third Quarter Response: DLSU tightened their defense in the third period, forcing turnovers and converting fast-break points to reclaim a slim 63-61 advantage.
• Clutch Free Throws: With 1:20 left, the Falcons’ big man tied the game at 82 with a putback layup, setting the stage for the late drama.
• Winning Shot: DLSU point guard drove the lane but kicked out to an open shooter who buried the go-ahead three with 18 seconds remaining.

Standout Players

• DLSU Green Archers: The backcourt duo of guard Mike Santos (22 points, 5 assists) and forward Chris Cruz (18 points, 8 rebounds) carried the offensive load. Santos’ leadership in the final quarter was instrumental.
• ADU Falcons: Center John Reyes posted a double-double (20 points, 12 rebounds) and kept ADU in contention. Guard Mark Tan added 16 points but struggled from the field in the closing minutes.

Tactical Story of the Game

ADU’s zone defense flustered DLSU early, forcing them into long-range jumpers. However, the Green Archers adjusted at halftime by attacking the paint through dribble penetration, which drew fouls and opened up perimeter looks. The Falcons, meanwhile, relied heavily on isolation sets but couldn’t generate clean looks when it mattered most. DLSU’s ability to switch on screens also limited ADU’s pick-and-roll game down the stretch.

Season Impact

For the Green Archers, this preseason win builds momentum as they fine-tune their rotation ahead of the UAAP season. The Falcons, despite the loss, showed they can compete with top-tier programs, and the early test will be valuable for their development. Both teams will look to build on this performance in upcoming Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup fixtures.