NATIONAL University leaned on the duo of rookie Solomon Padiz Jr. and graduating senior Keeyan Gabuelo to snare their sixth consecutive UAAP badminton title, beating Ateneo, 3-1, on Saturday at the PNP Sports Center Badminton Courts.
With their spectacular campaign, Gabuelo was named the Most Valuable Player while Padiz took the Rookie of the Year honors after 21-17, 23-21, 21-14 win over Keoni Asuncion and Arthur Salvado.
The win was the Bulldogs' 51st straight since UAAP Season 77. NU tied Ateneo for most championships in the league's men's badminton tournament with six crowns.
Ateneo captain Bagasbas opened the day with an upset of opposing skipper Gabuelo, 21-19, 11-21, 21-18, in the first singles, before Padiz leveled the tie after stunning Asuncion, 21-9, 21-14, in the second singles match.
Freshmen James Villarante and Julius Villabrille sent NU to the brink of the championship with a 21-18, 23-21 decision over Geno Cariño and Fides Bagasbas.
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