Kean Baclaan posted a double-double performance to help National University turn back Far Eastern University, 71-65, in the first round of the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The Bulldogs came out unscathed in two outings after fending off the Tamaraws’ third-quarter fightback.

Baclaan carried out an all-around performance of 15 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and four steals while Mike Malonzo added 10 points of his own.

Steve Nash Enriquez and Omar John added nine points each, while Jake Figueroa had eight points and 12 rebounds.

The opening period saw both squads engage in a low scoring affair before picking up the pace at the break, 43-30.

FEU managed to storm its way back from 15 down to just two, but NU regained control just in time to stay ahead, 57-51 in the third quarter. 

Baclaan kept the Bulldogs afloat with a jumper with less than two minutes to spare, 67-62, as the Tamaraws were held almost scoreless in the remainder of regulation.

Cholo Anonuevo and LJ Gonzales led the Tamaws in the losing cause with 16 and 15 points each, while Xyrus Torres tallier 14 points.

FEU remained winless in two games reminiscent of its campaign last season.

The Scores:

NU (71) - Baclaan 15, Malonzo 10, Enriquez 9, John 9, Figueroa 8, Lim 5, Yu 4, Palacielo 4, Manansala 4, Parks 3, Jumamoy 0, Padrones 0.

FEU (65) - Añonuevo 16, Gonzales 15, Torres 14, Sleat 8, Bagunu 5, Alforque 2, Ona 2, Faty 2, Bautista 1, Tempra 0.

Quarterscores: 14-8, 43-30, 57-51, 71-65.