UAAP: NU ends slump, picks up 1st win after dumping FEU

MANILA, Philippines— National U picked up its first win in emphatic fashion after drubbing an out-of-sync Far Eastern U squad, 61-39, Wednesday in the UAAP
Season 82 men’s basketball at Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bulldogs held the Tamaraws to just 24 points in the first three periods on their way to raising their record to 1-5.

NU’s season has been littered with heartbreak, having lost three games by the slimmest of margins and also dropping an overtime game to University of Santo Tomas.

“We thank God that we’re still here and we’re competing even with all the losses,” said NU coach Jamike Jarin, who brought his entire team for the post game press conference.

“The reason why I brought these guys is because we win together and we lose together.”

The Bulldogs left little to chance this time as they rolled to a strong start against the cold-shooting Tamaraws.

NU neutralized the FEU offense in the first half, holding the Tamaraws to just 16 percent shooting. The Tamaraws’ woeful opening half also included 11 turnovers and zero assists.

All told, FEU shot just 19 percent from the field and finished with a season-low three assists.

Dave Ildefonso topscored with 20 points and also grabbed eight rebounds for the Bulldogs, who next face University of the East on
Sunday. Migs Oczon added nine points, while Shaun Ildefonso chipped in eight points.