The NU Bulldogs handed the UP Fighting Maroons their first loss of the season, 72‑64, in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bulldogs came out firing, building a 17‑point lead, 21‑4, in the opening quarter behind Mac Alfanta, Paul Francisco, Mo Diassana, PJ Palacielo, and Reinhard Jumamoy.
NU Fends Off Late UP Rally
NU maintained its advantage throughout the game despite a late push from the Fighting Maroons, who trimmed the deficit to nine, 59‑68, with over a minute remaining.
The Bulldogs held their ground in the final moments to secure the win and hand UP its first defeat of the season.
“Credit talaga sa mga players. They really stepped up doon sa challenge na kailangan labanan namin kumbaga kasi we’re a young team eh. At least kahit papaano, credit sa mga players sa collective effort na ginawa namin sa game na ito,” said Bulldogs head coach Jeff Napa.
Heroes All Around for NU
Jumamoy led the Bulldogs with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Francisco had 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 steals. Diassana added 10 points and 8 rebounds, while Palacielo finished the game with 9 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists.
For the Fighting Maroons, Arvie Poyos led the team with 13 points, while Veejay Pre had 11 points.
The Bulldogs will next face the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Saturday, October 3, at 5:30 p.m. at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons will try to bounce back against the FEU Tamaraws on Sunday, October 4, at 5:30 p.m. at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
