MANILA, Philippines — National University forward Jolo Manansala on Saturday downplayed the hard fall he suffered in the closing seconds of the Bulldogs’ UAAP men’s basketball Final Four loss to De La Salle University, saying he was able to walk off without major issues after landing awkwardly on a contested three-point attempt.
The incident occurred in the final moments of the game when La Salle guard Jacob Cortez fouled Manansala on a perimeter shot, causing the NU forward to lose his balance and crash to the floor. Game officials immediately called the infraction as medical staff from both schools rushed in to assess his condition.
Play was briefly halted at the UAAP Final Four venue as Manansala received on-court attention. He eventually stood up and returned to the NU bench under his own power, where team personnel continued to monitor him while the remaining seconds ticked away.
Coaches and players from both sides checked on Manansala following the scare, and UAAP event organizers implemented standard injury-response protocols to ensure he could safely leave the playing area after the contest.
NU’s coaching staff kept Manansala sidelined for the remainder of the game and prepared to conduct postgame evaluations, but initial checks indicated no serious injury.
Despite the fall, Manansala later assured reporters that he was fine, easing concerns among teammates and spectators who witnessed the awkward landing.