NU clinches quarterfinals spot, downs EAC

National University guard Rev Diputado shoots a jumper. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

National University secured a spot in the quarterfinal stages of the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup, downing Emilio Aguinaldo College, 72-68, Sunday at San Juan Arena.

Bulldogs head coach Eric Altamirano said his team needed games as physical as this one to build up their character and fortitude.

“Both teams wanted to win, and we need that, we need that kind of game,” said Altamirano. “Down to two possessions, this would help build our character.”

“Mga palitan ng mukha, matira matibay, and it’s good the boys showed toughness.”

NU, which improved to 4-1, built 71-65 cushion with less than three minutes remaining before Raymund Pascua hit a three-pointer at the 1:12 mark to trim the lead to 71-68.

But consecutive fouls, however, hampered the Generals’ comeback bid as the Bulldogs maintained possession for more than half-a-minute with JV Gallego icing the game at the free throw line. 

Reserve forward Med Salim led NU with 13 points while Chino Mosqueda and Rev Diputado had 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Francis Munsayac had 14 points while Laminou Hamadou put up an 11-point, 15-rebound double-double to lead the Generals (1-5).