Reinhard Jumamoy came through in the clutch as the NU Bulldogs edged the UST Growling Tigers, 87-85, in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
With just 0.5 seconds remaining, Jumamoy shook off the defense of Mark Llemit and stepped back to knock down the go-ahead three-pointer, putting NU ahead, 87-85.
Amiel Acido had a chance to save the Growling Tigers, but his three-point attempt was denied by Mo Diassana, sealing the victory for the Bulldogs.
“Right from the start of the game, meron akong binatong question sa team ko na how hard will they push for this game? It went overtime, so hats off sa players ko; talagang ibinigay nila, although ang daming crucial mistakes,” said NU head coach Jeff Napa.
Stars SHow Out for UST and NU
Jumamoy finished with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals. PJ Palacielo added 16 points, while Kenshin Padrones contributed 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Mac Alfanta and Paul Francisco chipped in 10 points apiece.
For UST, Landyn Jumawan led the way with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals, while Llemit added 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. Acido chipped in 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
Collins Akowe also contributed 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 steals.
NU will close the first round of eliminations against the Far Eastern University Tamaraws on Sunday, October 18, at 2:30 p.m. at the Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City. UST, meanwhile, will face FEU on Wednesday, October 14, at 3:00 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
