Millora

December 8, 2024 | 9:23pm

MANILA, Philippines — In a showdown against one of the most formidable frontcourts in the league, University of the Philippines’ Quentin Millora-Brown delivered an impressive performance for the Fighting Maroons against the La Salle Green Archers.

The 6-foot-10 Millora-Brown was pivotal in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament finals, facing off against defending Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao and the tough Michael Phillips.

He played a key role in UP’s 73-65 victory on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, contributing 17 points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and one block.

In the second half, Millora-Brown scored 13 of his total points and grabbed six rebounds during the final two quarters.

He ignited the Diliman-based team, overcoming Quiambao’s 18 points in the first half by relying on a strong defensive effort in the third and fourth quarters.

Quiambao ended the match with 19 points in 35 minutes of play, while Phillips recorded 17 points, with both players securing 11 rebounds each.

Post-game, UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde praised Millora-Brown, stating he “really rose to the occasion.”

“We all expect each other to perform at our best, and for this game, Q really rose to the challenge, especially in the finals,” he told reporters.

“He did everything he could, and, for me, it made a significant difference in the game today,” he added.

The 24-year-old acknowledged his teammates for facilitating his strong second half performance.

“You know, it’s about being present during the game. I felt there were opportunities to score in the first half and then in the second half, the team called plays for me. It was crucial for me to execute what the team needed from me,” he stated.

“As I have said before, it’s about everyone contributing. We must fulfill the requirements of the team, because that’s how we achieve victory,” he continued.

Millora-Brown was absent during the second round matchup between UP and La Salle due to the passing of his grandfather, who significantly influenced his decision to join UP.

Now, being just one win away from capturing a championship for the Fighting Maroons, he expressed that the chance to win a title “holds immense meaning” for him.

“This is the school my grandfather attended, and I’m incredibly grateful for the memories I’ve created here, reflecting on what he’s experienced and accomplished. The pride I feel wearing this jersey drives me to win the next game and conclude the season successfully. Achieving that would be fantastic,” he emphasized.

Nevertheless, he highlighted that it won’t be easy.

“However, we understand that it’s a challenging path ahead. We have a lot to prepare for in the next game because La Salle won’t give up easily. They’ll come back fighting harder. We need to elevate our performance to match that.”

Alongside Millora-Brown, JD Cagulangan and Francis Lopez also shone for UP, each finishing with 13 points. The former added five assists and four rebounds, along with two blocks and a steal, while the latter contributed six rebounds, four blocks, and two assists. 

Game 2 of the Finals is scheduled for Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.