Bulldogs ground Blue Eagles for 2-0 start

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

National University rode on a big third quarter to roll past Ateneo, 70-60, Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum to remain unbeaten in the UAAP Season 79 Seniors’ Basketball Tournament.

The Bulldogs improved to 2-0 while the Blue Eagles slid to 1-1.

After a 32-deadlock at the end of the first half, the Bulldogs found their offensive groove in the penultimate quarter, outscoring the Blue Eagles, 20-9, with Matt Salem equaling all of Ateneo’s point production in the pivotal period.

Bulldogs head coach Eric Altamirano said it was his team’s stingy defense that led to their high-octane offense.

“I reminded the team to remember the details of the defense,” said Altamirano. “It was a per possession game, that’s how important every possession is for us.”

NU shot a respectable 41 percent from the floor while limiting Ateneo to just 36 percent. The Bulldogs also out-rebounded the Blue Eagles 46-39.

Rev Diputado finished with a game-high 16 points for NU to go along seven rebounds and three steals.

Salem finished with 12 points and eight rebounds while Alfred Aroga added 11 points and six rebounds.

Mike Nieto led Ateneo with 14 points.