DON’T tell National University it’s a no bearing game.
The Bulldogs, with nothing to lose and simply eyeing to end the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament on a high, tripped up listless La Salle, 63-54, Wednesday at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
PJ Palacielo registered six of his 16 points in the fourth quarter, together with seven rebounds, as Jake Figueroa added 14 points, three boards, and two assists.
It’s the second big fish National U has caught inside the Espana venue, with it previously upsetting the University of the Philippines, 67-47, back in Nov. 3.
The Bulldogs warded off a late flurry from the Green Archers after their 10-point lead was trimmed down to three, 53-50 with 4:39 to go, thanks to Figueroa triggering a 11-4 closer to claim the win for a 5-9 standing at the end the tournament.
“I’m so happy sa mga players talaga, binigay nila yung best nila up to the last game,” said coach Jeff Napa, taking solace on the strong finish that his side had after all their struggles throughout the season.
Doesn't change much for La Salle
On the other hand, there also wasn’t much to lose for La Salle, as it has already secured the top seed and twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four despite seeing the end of its nine-game win streak.
The Green Archers end the eliminations with a 12-2 win-loss record and now await their semifinals match-up.
Michael Phillips led the Taft side with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists, Raven Gonzales had nine points and nine boards, and Henry Agunanne got eight and 15.
The Scores:
NU 63 – Palacielo 16, Figueroa 14, Garcia 8, Manansala 6, Padrones 5, Enriquez 5, Yu 3, Jumamoy 3, Dela Cruz 2, Lim 1, Santiago 0, Tulabut 0, Francisco 0, Parks 0.
LA SALLE 54 – M. Phillips 18, Gonzales 9, Agunanne 8, Quiambao 6, Ramiro 4, David 3, Macalalag 2, Gollena 2, Marasigan 1, Dungo 1, Austria 0, Konov 0, Alian 0.
Quarters: 17-17, 38-32, 47-39, 63-54.
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