National University clinched the first semifinal slot by downing defending champion Chiang Kai Shek College, 86-67, even as Hope Christian High School snapped a two-game losing skein on Saturday in the 2nd PCABL Jumbo Plastic Linoleum Cup at Philippine Buddhacare Academy gym in Quezon City.
John Clemente and Rhayyan Amsali scored 11 points each while three others produced 10 points apiece to power NU to its fifth straight win in the preseason tournament among high school teams.
The top finisher after the single-round eliminations will secure a twice-to-beat advantage the semifinals.
Hope Christian drew 25 and 22 points from Mac Jacob and Miguel Quiambao, respectively, to beat University of the East, 95-89, and rise to 2-2.
Reigning UAAP champion Ateneo also extended its win streak to four since losing to NU in the inaugurals by routing University of Santo Tomas, 98-67.
Martin Mendoza and Jolo Mendoza led Ateneo’s onslaught with 21 and 16 points, respectively.
In the other game, Jack Gloria shot 20 points as Far Eastern University bounced back from a 61-79 loss to NU last week by trouncing Letran B, 88-70. It was FEU’s third win in four games.