Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The University of the East (UE) Red Warriors shocked the National University (NU) Bulldogs, 76-71, behind Edison Batiller in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) on Saturday (September 12) at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Batiller led the Red Warriors with 23 points.
The National University (NU) Bulldogs took a slim 37-32 advantage heading into the halftime break, but UE coach Derrick Pumaren challenged his boys to do better.
“I challenged the guys at halftime, they have to show their worth,” said Pumaren. “The start of the third quarter was the Warriors I was looking for.”
Batiller led the charge for UE in the third period as they outclassed the Bulldogs. The young transferee from the Holy Trinity College scored 14 points as the Warriors took a 60-46 lead into the final period.
Bulldog Gelo Alolino would not let his side go down without a fight as he poured in 12 markers in the fourth quarter and helped bring the lead to 61-62 with five minutes left.
But it was not to be for the defending champs, as they ultimately fell short, 76-71.
Alolino paced NU with 23 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
The UE Red Warriors will look to secure another victory against the Adamson Falcons on Wednesday (September 16), while the NU Bulldogs will hope to finally burst into the win column against the Ateneo Blue Eagles on the same day.
