NATIONAL University whipped University of the Philippines yesterday 109-33 in the UAAP Season 82 women’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to extend its historic win streak to 92.
Getting off to a hot start, the Lady Bulldogs ended the first quarter with a 35-9 lead, stretched this to 51-15 at the half and led by as much as 75 points several times in the last quarter en route to the smashing win.
“I’m just happy that our first group delivered from the opening minutes of the game. They had the momentum going and everybody was into our game plan,” said coach Pat Aquino, who drew 65 points from his starters.
Rookie Camille Clarin made the most of her opportunities with 20 points and five rebounds, while Congolese center Rhena Itesi added 16 points, eight boards, three steals, and two assists.
Kaye Pingol added 15 points, five rebounds, five steals, and four assists; Jack Animam had a double-double of 15 points and 14 boards on top of five dimes, four steals, and three blocks; and rookie Angel Surada had 14 points, 13 rebounds, three steals, and two assists.
“I’m also happy that the second five delivered. They’re understanding that they have to perform and execute the same way as the first group,” said Aquino, whot got 44 points from his second group.
Lulu Ordoveza had eight points and four rebounds as the Lady Maroons fell to 1-11 in the standings.
In other games, University of Santo Tomas beat La Salle 71-49 to improve to 10-3 and book a slot in the Final Four, while Adamson University edged Far Eastern U 61-59 to improve to 8-4, good for third, one-and-a-half games ahead of the Lady Tams.
