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UAAP Finals Game 2 preview: Game plan execution, desire are biggest keys

Manila, Philippines-Mac Belo of Far Eastern University handles the basketball against Glenn Khobuntin of National University during the UAAP Season 77 Finals Game 1at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on 05 October 2014. (Czeasar Dancel/NPPA Images)
Manila, Philippines-Mac Belo of Far Eastern University handles the basketball against Glenn Khobuntin of National University during the UAAP Season 77 Finals Game 1at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on 05 October 2014. (Czeasar Dancel/NPPA Images)

We saw a great match-up between the Far Eastern University Tamaraws and the National University Bulldogs in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 77 Finals on Saturday. The Tamaraws took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series via a 75-70 decision after coming out strong in the third period with a 25-12 explosion that somehow set the pace for the rest of the game. In that pivotal third canto, FEU led by as many as 13 points after trailing by 12 in the first half.

With the way both teams are playing, the game plan will play a major role for the rest of the series. And the team that executes better will most likely take Game 2.

A review of the numbers in Game 1 showed that both squads were very evenly matched. But it was FEU that made its usual targets. The Tams are more likely to win when they get to over 70 points. They scored 75 in Game 1. On the other hand, the Bulldogs are most successful when they are able to limit their opponents to not more than 54 points. Clearly, the Tams dictated the tempo in Game 1.

Of course, it did not help the Bulldogs’ cause that they missed 16 foul shots in the game. They hit 15 of 31 from the stripe while the Tams made 11 of 13. But NU actually won in three out of the four quarters (1st Q:  15-14, 2nd Q:  23-21 and 4th Q:  20-15). It was in the third period that FEU was able to seize the momentum.

Game tempo

Most evident is the fact that FEU controlled the tempo by speeding up the game.  The Tams had more fast break points, 14-6, and more turnover points, 15-7. That’s a 16-point difference in transition points, which proved to be the biggest key in their win.

All other stats are almost even: (Total Field Goals – FEU 40.85%, NU 38.81%; Total Rebounds – NU 44, FEU 43; Assists – FEU 15, NU 10; Turnovers – 14 each; and Inside Points – 32 points each).

In Game 2, the team that controls the tempo will have a better chance of getting the W.

The Bulldogs must force the half-court set. They are the best defensive team in the tournament in terms of defending in the half-court. Their biggest weakness is transition defense. Even Ateneo made its big rally when it scored in transition against NU during their two semis matches. Sprinting back on defense will be what the doctor ordered for the Bulldogs in Game 2.

Now, a half-court ballgame would be very interesting. Both FEU and NU run the dribble-drive motion offense. Both also have set plays anchored on their go-to-guys. The Tamaraws can isolate Mike Tolomia or post up Mac Belo. The Bulldogs can post up Alfred Aroga or Jeth Troy Rosario. Both teams use the pick and roll readily. And more importantly, both squads are great with their half-court defensive schemes. In a deliberate ballgame, execution will matter most.

Who will step up?

RR Pogoy was the biggest hero for FEU in Game 1. It was his 10-point explosion in the third quarter that reversed the tide in that game. He finished with 14 markers next to Tolomia’s 15. Belo struggled offensively but still hit the big baskets in the crucial stages.  Achie Inigo continues to amaze with 12 points. His remarkable progress this season has certainly been a huge lift for the Tamaraws.

For NU, Aroga needs to do more than his team-best 17 markers in Game 1. He is supposed to be the biggest mismatch versus FEU. He is big, strong and fast.  Understandably, the Tams are prepared defensively for Aroga. This is where the other Bulldogs must step up. When FEU’s defense closes in on Aroga, the others must be ready to receive the kick-out pass and deliver the points. Gelo Alolino’s 14 points in Game 1 are normal.  Same with Rosario’s 12 and Glenn Khobuntin’s nine. But Nico Javelona (3 points), JJay Alejandro (3 points) and Reb Diputado (2 points) must do more.

Two charismatic coaches

But what I look forward to the most is the game plans of both coaches coming into Game 2. Both Nash Racela of FEU and Eric Altamirano of NU are thinking strategists. And both know each other well.
Racela served as Altamirano’s deputy during the latter’s stint as head coach of the Coca-Cola Tigers in the PBA some years back.

“When he was my assistant at Coke, I really appreciated his inputs. Magaling siya, very smart. He knows what he is doing that’s why I’m not surprised that FEU made it this far,” said Altamirano about Racela.

NU head coach Eric Altamirano and FEU head coach Nash Racela. (Czeasar DAncel/NPPA Images)
NU head coach Eric Altamirano and FEU head coach Nash Racela. (Czeasar DAncel/NPPA Images)

By the same token, Racela also had kind words about his former mentor. “Coach E is a very charismatic coach. Maganda ang approach niya, which is why they are playing well. It’s because of his leadership that NU is back in the finals after 44 years. I have learned some things from him, which is partly why I coach this way – similarly charismatic approach,” said Racela.

I don’t expect too much adjustments on the part of both coaches. They will still try to go to their strengths. Perhaps some surprise moves will be unveiled just to keep the other team off-track. Maybe we can see some zone combinations and trapping schemes. Maybe a few half-court set and inbound plays. But in the crucial stages, they will still go with their bread-and-butter plays.

One thing we can be sure is that both coaches will make the best game preparation for Game 2.

Desire and smarts

But in the actual game, the players’ desire to win and ability to play smart will spell the difference between winning and losing.

Expect a cardiac finish in Game 2.