Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
National University showed great composure down the stretch to beat Arellano University, 68-65, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Sunday at San Juan Arena.
The Bulldogs ended the elimination round with a 6-1 record, streaking to their fourth straight win that propelled them to the top of Group B heading into the quarterfinals.
Bulldogs head coach Eric Altamirano praised his team for holding it out in the end against a veteran Chiefs team.
“Ngayon nakita ko na meron naman pala, kaya pala nung team,” said Altamirano of his team’s fortitude in late game situations. “Kaya pala nila, they can hold their ground and get it done in the end.”
Matthew Aquino secured a crucial possession for NU off a scramble underneath the basket before scoring on a lay in that set the final score with 20.9 seconds left.
Bulldogs center Alfred Aroga was on the line with the score tied at 65-65 but only made the first.
Matt Salem led NU with 15 points, all coming from rainbow country, and five rebounds while Chino Mosqueda added 11. Aroga dominated with 16 rebounds to go along his seven points.
Jio Jalalon was basically a one-man show for Arellano, which dropped to 5-2, with 24 points, five rebounds, and four steals.