National University and University of Santo Tomas both achieved important objectives in Saturday’s UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball doubleheader, each completing their own turnaround.
NU staged a massive comeback, overturning an 18-point deficit early in the third quarter to defeat University of the East, 83-74, and secure the first twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four.
“I think our players assumed UE wasn’t going to play seriously,” NU coach Jeff Napa said. “We were too relaxed … I [challenged the players], ‘Is this the level you want to play at when we’re about to enter the Final Four? If you want to succeed at the next level, you have to give your best.’”
The Bulldogs responded as Jolo Manansala, Omar John, and Mark Parks fueled the rally, trimming the gap to two entering the fourth. NU then pulled ahead behind PJ Palacielo, Jake Figueroa, John, and Manansala to build a decisive 75-63 lead with under three minutes left.
UE absorbed its 13th straight loss of the season and 19th overall.
In the second game, UST rediscovered its identity to beat Ateneo, 67-59, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“We returned to our old identity,” said Gelo Crisostomo, who tallied 10 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks. “I’m happy it resulted in another win.”
UST also finally found its rhythm at the free-throw line, sinking 22 of 28 after struggling heavily in previous outings. The Tigers have now won back-to-back games following a four-game skid, reclaiming solo fourth.
“When we lost four straight, we were aching to bounce back,” Crisostomo said.
“We’re glad that we got our much-needed win. Still happy with our progress at this stage of the season, [and] we still want to improve each practice, each game,” added Forthsky Padrigao, who drained two key triples to extend UST’s lead to 59-49.
John led NU with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks, while Figueroa added 14 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
Collins Akowe powered UST with 15 points, 16 rebounds, and four blocks, followed by Nic Cabañero’s 14 points, seven boards, and six assists.
The Bulldogs and Tigers will face each other next on Nov. 23.