By NIKOLE JAVIER
National University slipped past University of the East, 77-70, in the UAAP Season 85 men's basketball tournament Sunday, Oct. 2, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
John Lloyd Clemente took charge for the Bulldogs with 15 points, while John Figueroa and Wilson Yu added 13 points apiece.
After a sluggish third period, the Bulldogs got back to work in the final frame to secure their first win of the season against the Red Warriors who remained winless in 15 games since 2019.
“It’s a good win for us. Pero still, marami pa kaming kailangan trabahuhin. So, bukas back to the drawing board. We will review kung ano talaga ‘yong mga lapses namin to correct,” said NU head coach Jeff Napa.
“Gaya nga noong third quarter, we came out flat. So, usually that’s our strength which is ‘yong third quarter. So, ‘yon ‘yong kailangan namin i-address,” he continued.
Despite the combined efforts of UE's Kyle and Nick Paranada from beyond the arc, NU’s balanced scoring proved to be more reliable down the stretch.
Kyle Paranada and Frederic Antiporda combined for 10 points in the final seconds but it wasn't enough to turn the tide in their favor.
“‘Yong una naming panalo hindi gano’n kaganda. Marami kami pwede pang ma-improve as a team saka sa individual, especially ‘yong defense namin kasi medyo mataas ‘yong nabigay naming points eh,” said Clemente.
NU will take on powerhouse Ateneo on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City at 6:30 p.m.