Falcons snap skid but set to lose Austria

MANILA, Philippines – The Adamson Falcons finally snapped a six-game losing streak at the expense of the still winless UP Fighting Maroons, 67-53, Saturday in the UAAP Season 76 men’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Ingrid Sewa and Rodney Brondial combined for 32 rebounds with the African import dishing a monster game of 18 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks to pace Adamson, which went winless since July 20 against Final Four contender National University Bulldogs.

But the Falcons’s victory was overshadowed by the surprised announcement of coach Leo Austria stepping down after this season.

“I think this will be my last season in the UAAP not because I’m going to the PBA but I want them to have a change,” said an emotional Austria in the post-game interview.

Austria’s contract is set to expire on Oct. 31 though there was a verbal offer he received a month ago before losing six straight games.

Austria further stressed that some quarters within the Adamson community have lost faith in him and he added that he won’t insist himself if they no longer want him.

Austria, who piloted the San Miguel Beermen to the Asean Basketball League title earlier this year, is also a member of the Petron Blaze Boosters’ coaching staff in the PBA.