Perpetual Help Altas vs NU Bulldogs. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
University of Perpetual Help remained unbeaten in the post Aric Del Rosario era after trumping National University, 78-66, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Saturday at San Juan Arena.
Nosa Omorogbe is now the presiding coach for the same team, which now holds a 2-0 record, he played for during his collegiate career.
It was still a fairly competitive match after three quarters with the Altas holding a slim 55-50 lead before they steamrolled past the Bulldogs and erected a 18-point lead, 78-60, with 1:10 left on Kervin Lucente’s basket.
Omorogbe said he was unaware of how NU would come at them since they play in different leagues, but his win against Bulldogs head coach Eric Altamirano does not take away his respect for the esteemed basketball mind.
“Respect? Oh sure, this is a championship team, I mean I really respect the coach because I thought the game would be very difficult because they have so much experience,” said Omorogbe.
Perpetual plays in the NCAA while NU is a member of the UAAP.
Versatile forward Gab Daganon led the Altas with 23 points while defensive specialist Prince Eze had his moments in the offensive end and contributed 12 points to go along with 10 rebounds and four blocks.
New Alta Daryl Singontiko, who previously played for Letran, seems to be jelling with the team quite well and finished with 11 points, six rebounds, five assists, one block, and one steal.
Reigning Filoil MVP Bright Akhuetie had a near double-double for Perpetual finishing with 11 points and nine boards.
Jess Diputado led NU with 12 points and five assists while reinstated Cedrick Labing-isa added eight points for the 1-1 Bulldogs.