UAAP: NU tames UST to improve to 3-0

Metro Manila, Philippines - In a battle of unbeaten squads, the National University Bulldogs prevailed over the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, 76-69, to keep their unblemished record in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

Jake Figueroa took over for the Bulldogs in the fourth quarter, dropping nine of his 22 points in the fourth period, including the clutch three-pointer that made it a 73-69 contest with 38.2 seconds left.

It was NU's disciplined defense that took down the Growling Tigers as prized recruit Collins Akowe was limited to just five points and eight rebounds for UST. He previously had double-double outings in their past two victories.

Omar John and PJ Palacielo contributed 10 points apiece for the Bulldogs as they improved their win-loss slate to 3-0.

Nic Cabanero had 19 points and six rebounds, while Amiel Acido posted 18 points for the Growling Tigers, which fell to 2-1 in the team standings

NU will next battle the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on Oct. 4 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, while UST tackles the University of the East Red Warriors on the same day.