NU Bulldogs in the Filoil Preseason Cup. FILOIL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—National University took advantage of a poor-shooting Far Eastern University to claim the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup title in perfect fashion following a 56-46 win on Saturday at San Juan Arena.
The Bulldogs limited the Tamaraws to an abysmal 21.5 percent shooting from the field and cruised to their first Filoil since 2012.
“What I preach is defense first before offense. The boys bought in a little bit, but I’m not contented because there were still numerous flaws,” said NU head coach Jeff Napa, whose team completed an 11-0 sweep of the tournament.
Omar John and JM Galinato converted back-to-back buckets to seal the deal for the Bulldogs, 53-44, with 1:35 left after the Tamaraws made it a five-point game thanks to an 11-2 run.
NU grabbed control of the game after unleashing a 15-0 surge in the second quarter and never trailed again after being down by three after the opening period.
Germy Mahinay posted a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Bulldogs, John and preseason MVP John Lloyd Clemente contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively.
Bryan Sajonia carried the load for FEU with 15 points and five rebounds while Pat Tchuente had 10.
Both teams will meet again when the UAAP Season 85 tips off in October.