NATIONAL University (NU) Bulldogs picked up its first victory of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament after dominating the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 76-56, on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Bulldogs established control from the opening quarter, racing to a 25-8 lead before maintaining a 42-20 advantage at halftime.
UE showed signs of life in the third period, outscoring NU, 20-12, but the Bulldogs restored their control in the final quarter to secure the 20-point victory.
Mo Diassana posted a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds to lead NU, while Reinhard Jumamoy also scored 12 points.
Kenshin Padrones added 11 points and seven rebounds, while PJ Palacielo contributed nine points and 11 rebounds.
The victory moved NU to a 1-1 record after losing its opening game to defending champion De La Salle University, 89-87.
Olamilekan Ajani led UE with 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Topeng Lagat also scored 11.
The defeat dropped the Red Warriors to 0-2 and extended their UAAP losing streak to 22 games dating back to the second round of Season 87 in 2024. (Adrian Co)
