Metro Manila, Philippines — The Ateneo de Manila University escaped the National University (NU) Bulldogs, 70-68, on Sunday in UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Rookies Jared Bahay and Kristian Porter delivered for the Blue Eagles in their second victory this season.
Bahay had 12 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Porter dropped 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Katipunan-based squad.
It was a test of character for the rebuilding Ateneo side as the Bulldogs kept themselves within striking distance in the final quarter.
Chris Koon added 10 points, eight rebounds, and three assists for the Blue Eagles.
Jake Figueroa and Jolo Manansala paced NU with 15 points and 12 points, respectively.
The Bulldogs fell to 2-6 in the team standings alongside Ateneo.
The Blue Eagles will next collide with the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers on Oct. 19 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.
Meanwhile, NU battles the Far Eastern University Tamaraws on Oct. 16 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
