A ‘breakthrough’ for NU as it ends FEU’s streak

MANILA, Philippines—National University got its act together in time to end Far Eastern University’s unbeaten streak, 61-57, Thursday in the 75th UAAP men’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Bobby Ray Parks knocked down his only two field goals of the night in the fourth quarter but those swung the lead and the momentum to the Bulldogs, who finally brought down a contender.

The Bulldogs overcame a 13-point deficit as they banked on a game-changing, 10-to-nothing roll in the third.

“It’s a breakthrough for us,” said head coach Eric Altamirano. “This test will make us a better, more matured team.”

Parks completed a three-point play after blowing by his defender with a quick step, then changing his shot on mid-air with 1:36 lef,t then iced the game with two charities with 16.8 seconds on the clock.

Parks had 17 points—all but four of which came from the stripe—six rebounds, seven assists and a steal while rookie Troy Rosario added 12 points.

The Tamaraws, who are still in front of the standings but with a blemished record for 4-1, had a chance to regain the edge but rookie Mark Belo botched two freebies.

Terrence Romeo led FEU with 18 points, eight rebounds, three assists and steals but nearly lost the ball on isolation, then misfired on a game-tying trey from way out.

RR Garcia struggled with just five markers, along with four boards.