NU Lady Bulldogs are champions once more. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—National University captured title no. six after stringing an incredible winning streak of 96 games.
The Lady Bulldogs capped off another perfect season with a sweep of University of Santo Tomas, clinching the crown with a 66-54 victory in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 82 women’s basketball finals Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Monique Del Carmen lit up early from the field, scoring seven first quarter points to help NU to a 25-8 start to take control from the get go.
“So happy with everything,” said NU head coach Pat Aquino. “I didn’t imagine we will have six tiles in six years with no losses. We are so happy for the schools and the players.”
UST tried to fight back in the fourth and got to as close as eight points, 46-38, but NU brandished its might with an 18-2 run to take a 64-40 lead and put the game beyond reach with 4:35 to play.
The graduating Del Carmen finished with 15 points, two rebounds, four assists, and two steals for the Finals MVP plum while center Rhena Itesi had 12 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals.
Forward Kelli Hayes will also graduate NU and she tallied nine points, three boards, two assists, and two steals.
Kaye Pingol also had 15 points with five rebounds, two assists, and two steals, but wasn’t able to finish the game after hurting her right shoulder.
The Bulldogs dedicated the title to power forward Jack Animam, who is still in Auckland, New Zealand, after suffering an orbital fracture on her right eye.
Tantoy Ferrer led the Growling Tigresses with 16 points, six rebounds, and three steals while Season MVP Grace Irebu put up 11 points and 10 boards.
Ruby Portillo, Lon Rivera, Kikay Gandalla, Shen Callanga, Carolina Sangalang, Karla Manuel, and Josalyn Casiano all played their final game for UST.