Bulldogs stun Eagles, Warriors tame Tigers

MANILA, Philippines — National U pulled the rug from under defending champion Ateneo with a huge 77-64 win behind a well-balanced attack last night in the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City

Patrick Wilson Yu and Nash Enriquez rifled in 12 and 10 points, respectively, as the Bulldogs scored one on the Blue Eagles anew after a historic triumph in Season 85 that served as its motivation for a Final Four finish.

Mark Padrones (9), Jolo Manansala (8), PJ Palacielo (8), Omar John (7), Jake Figueroa (7), Mike Malonzo (6) and Donn Lim (6) also made their presence felt for the wards of coach Jeff Napa.

“Naka-tsamba siguro kami. ‘Yun lang, naka-tsamba against a stronger team. Itong panalo na ito, wala pa namang silbi ito. It does not guarantee us a Final Four. We will continue pushing ourselves to the limit,” said Napa.

Gab Gomez (12), Sean Quitevis (12) and Ian Espinosa (10) led the way for the Blue Eagles in their first opening-day defeat since 2018 when they bowed to Adamson, 74-70.

Earlier, University of the East spoiled the anticipated coaching return of Pido Jarencio with the UST Tigers, essaying an 80-70 victory.

Sophomore guard Rey Remogat led a scattered attack while new reinforcement Precious Momowei flashed his brilliance on the defensive end as the Warriors fended off the Tigers’ late fightback.

Remogat, embracing his role as the team’s starting point guard, came through with 21 points, 10 rebounds and three steals while Momowei produced 17 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and four steals.

Jack Cruz-Dumont and Abdul Sawat banged in 16 and 15 points, respectively, as they contributed in  UE’s relentless barrage that saw the Warriors led by as many as 19 points.

“We didn’t manage to scout UST kasi tinago nila ‘yung team nila but sabi ko nga sa boys, knowing coach Pido is a winning and veteran coach, they will come out strong and give us a lot of surprises,” said UE mentor Jack Santiago.