Run it back: Mike Phillips to return for final UAAP season with La Salle

MANILA, Philippines – Mike Phillips is staying put at La Salle.  

The two-time UAAP Mythical Five member Phillips said that he is playing his final season with the Green Archers after La Salle fell short against the UP Fighting Maroons in Game 3 of their Season 87 men’s basketball finals on Sunday, December 15. 

“La Salle, from the top to the bottom, has just taken such great care of me. They’ve been just the backbone of me,” said Phillips.

“I’m definitely here for La Salle. I’m playing every single game next year. I’m with La Salle.”

The 6-foot-8 Phillips led the Green Archers in their grueling Season 87 finals campaign, posting a double-double in points and rebounds in all three games.

“Motor Mike” averaged team-highs of 17.6 points and 11.6 rebounds in the finals, capped by an 18-point and 12-rebound showing in La Salle’s 66-62 loss in the winner-take-all showdown on Sunday in front of 25,248 fans at the Araneta Coliseum.

However, the energetic big man shot a horrific 6-of-15 clip from the free throw line and fouled out with 11 seconds left in Game 3 as the Green Archers came up short in their quest for two consecutive titles. 

Following the departure of back-to-back MVP Kevin Quiambao — who decided to forego his last two years of eligibility in the UAAP to play professionally in Korea — Phillips is expected to lead the charge for the Green Archers in their title-redemption bid in Season 88, along with transferees Mason Amos, Kean Baclaan, and Jacob Cortez. 

“You guys made a commitment and you’ve taken care of me so much, so I’m going to honor that commitment and still play my last year for you guys,” Phillips said to La Salle.

“I’ll just give you everything that I have, my whole heart and soul, to really just try to make the La Salle community proud.” – Rappler.com