Altamirano makes winning return to UP

University of the Philippines (UP) rallied from 13 points down to defeat Ateneo de Manila University, 89-82, and secure its first win in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 89 women’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

It was a winning debut for head coach Eric Altamirano, who returned to the UAAP after 10 years. Altamirano last coached in the league with National University’s men’s basketball team in 2016. The Fighting Maroons also wore retro throwback jerseys inspired by the 1986 UP men’s basketball championship team.

“First of all, it’s good to be back here in the UAAP. We’re happy with the outcome of the game; it was kind of scary for us. It was really a come-from-behind win—we had to dig deep, especially in the fourth quarter. But I’m proud of these girls, their resiliency, and being able to overcome Ateneo’s lead,” Altamirano said.

The Fighting Maroons trailed by six, 77-71, with 4:38 remaining before Kennan Ka and Louna Ozar brought UP within two, 77-75.

After Kacey Dela Rosa split her free throws on the other end, Camille Nolasco drilled a triple to tie the game at 78-all with 3:21 to play.

From there, the floodgates opened for UP, as Marielle Vingno’s jumper gave the Fighting Maroons their first lead since the opening minutes of the game. Nolasco then knocked down another three-pointer to give UP an 83-78 advantage.

With both teams already in the penalty, the Fighting Maroons capitalized from the free-throw line to put the game away.

Ateneo led by as many as 13 points in the third quarter, with Dela Rosa already erupting for 17 points and eight rebounds in the first half alone.

However, UP closed the third quarter with an 8-0 run in the final minute to trim the deficit to three, 63-60, setting the stage for its fourth-quarter comeback.

Ka, fresh from winning a silver medal with the Gilas Pilipinas Women 3x3 team at the 2026 Asian Games, delivered a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds while providing plenty of hustle on both ends of the floor.

“It’s my first game in the UAAP, so I’m just really excited. The style of play is definitely different from what I experienced back in the States,” said Ka of her quick transition from 3x3 to 5x5.

Nolasco also turned in a breakout performance, leading UP with 19 points, four rebounds, and four assists.

Vingno and Ozar rounded out the Fighting Maroons’ double-digit scorers with 12 and 10 points, respectively.

“I thought today was a great team effort. Camille helped us a lot offensively by making a lot of big shots,” Ka said.

Dela Rosa, who also suited up for Gilas Pilipinas Women 3x3 and was Ka’s teammate at the Asian Games, paced Ateneo with a double-double of 28 points and 16 rebounds. Seng Calago also posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Sarah Makanjuola added 12 points and eight rebounds for the Blue Eagles, who were guided by their new coach PJ Navarro.