The NU Lady Bulldogs remained unbeaten in the UAAP Season 89 Women’s Basketball Tournament after holding off the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 87‑77, at the PhilSports Arena.
The Lady Bulldogs started the game hot, building a 20‑point lead, 47‑27, with two minutes left in the first half. However, the Blue Eagles refused to back down.
After the halftime break, Ateneo slowly chipped away at the deficit, trimming it to just six, 58‑64, late in the third quarter. Reigning Rookie of the Year Kacey Dela Rosa then took over in the final frame, bringing the Blue Eagles within three, 75‑78.
NU Takes Charge Down the Stretch
However, Marga Villanueva and the rest of the Bulldogs refused to back down as they pulled away for good in the dying minutes of the game.
“We just have to work on it, two games na may third quarter na medyo bumababa. We cannot sustain yung nabubuild namin na lead in the first half,” said Lady Bulldogs head coach DA Olan. “Pero we’re happy na we’re able to pull through this win.”
Villanueva finished with 16 points, while Aloha Betanio added 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. Zaydhen Rosano contributed 13 points and 5 assists, Ann Pingol had 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Cielo Pagdulagan and Cayabyab chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Dela Rosa delivered a monster performance for the Blue Eagles, finishing with 31 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 steals. Seng Calago added 19 points and 9 rebounds, while Sarah Makanjuola posted 13 points and 9 rebounds.
The Bulldogs will next face the defending champions UST Growling Tigresses on Saturday, October 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Later that day at 12:00 p.m., the Blue Eagles will take on the FEU Lady Tamaraws.
