NAZARETH School of National University once again reminded everyone that it is the top dog in high school basketball.
The Bullpups survived a game challenge from San Beda's Red Cubs, 76-69, to rule the juniors division of the 2019 Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup on Sunday.
Kevin Quiambao powered NU with a huge double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds as the Jhocson-based squad completed the seven-game romp in the summer tournament despite missing the services of key players Carl Tamayo, Gerry Abadiano, and Terrence Fortea, who are with the Gilas Pilipinas Youth preparing for the 2019 Fiba Under-19 World Cup.
"Kevin has been leading the team. Hindi lang siya center, he's directing everything and yung guidance niya, it's there," said coach Goldwin Monteverde of Quiambao, who was adjudged as the Tournament MVP.
San Beda also played the Finals without Rhayyan Amsali, who was with the national youth team.
Harold Alarcon led the Bullpups with 17 points, three assists, two rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, while Nat Tulabut had 14 points and eight boatds in the victory.
"Malaking bagay ito sa amin, not only for this season but also for the next years. Whatever experience they gained now, valuable yun," said Monteverde.
Troy Valencia paced the Red Cubs with 14 points, nine rebounds, three steals, while Justine Sanchez got 12 points and 15 boards in the losing effort.
Quiambao and Tamayo of NU, Sanchez of San Beda, and Lyceum's Mclaude Guadana and John Barba were named in the Mythical Team.
The Junior Pirates edged out the Perpetual Junior Altas, 79-78, in the third-place match.
The Scores:
NU 76 - Alarcon 17, Quiambao 15, Tulabut 14, Enriquez 8, Torres 7, Buensalida 7, Felicilda 4, Laure 4, Mailim 0, Duremdes 0, Abiera 0, Lantaya 0.
SAN BEDA 69 - Valencia 14, Sanchez 12, Alcantara 12, Andrada 8, Cabanero 7, Pelipel 6, Oftana 6, Llarena 4, Alao 0, Pascual 0, Peregrina 0, Mamaradlo 0.
Quarters: 25-13, 36-28, 60-49, 76-69.
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