MANILA – National University (NU) Bulldogs showed grit and composure down the stretch to overturn a fourth-quarter deficit and defeat the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers, 82-78, in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
With the win, the Bulldogs seized the solo lead in the standings at 5-1, marking their most impressive start in recent seasons.
After trailing 55-61 entering the final frame, NU mounted a furious comeback anchored on the clutch performance of PJ Palacielo, who erupted for 10 of his 16 points in the payoff period.
Reinhard Jumamoy also delivered timely baskets, all eight of his points coming in the fourth quarter.
“In our past preseason games, we couldn’t beat La Salle. We really had to find a way to break them down and finally get this win,” said Palacielo, who also pulled down key rebounds in the closing minutes.
Jake Figueroa led NU’s balanced offense with 18 points, while Paul Francisco and Gelo Santiago added 13 and 12, respectively.
“The boys really wanted it since the other day in practice. You could see that they were focused and relaxed. When we entered this game, they knew exactly what to do,” said NU assistant coach Vic Ycasiano.
Michael Phillips tallied 15 points, 16 rebounds, and three steals for the Green Archers, who fell to 2-3. Jacob Cortez also had 15 markers, while Kean Baclaan finished with 11 points and six assists in a losing effort.
Meanwhile, defending champion University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons extended their winning streak to four games after edging the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws, 69-66.
Negrense Harold Alarcon spearheaded UP with 15 points, supported by Isagani Stevens and fellow Negrense Reyland Torres, who added 14 and 12, respectively.
Jorick Bautista top-scored for the Tamaraws with 18 points, while Mo Konateh and Janrey Pasaol contributed 16 and 11 as FEU slid to 1-4./PN
