National University remained undefeated in the 15th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup after eliminating San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 75-64, on Tuesday afternoon in San Juan City.
The Bulldogs were leading 60-49 with 7:39 remaining following a Kenshin Padrones jumper, his only field goal in the game.
From there, the Golden Stags sparked an 11-3 run to be back in the ballgame capped by a Milo Janao triple, 60-63 with under four minutes remaining.
John Figueroa answered with a basket of his own, followed by an and-one play from Ian Manansala to bring their lead to eight.
John Galinato sealed the deal for the NU with another basket plus foul play with 45 seconds left to play, bringing their lead back to 11, 75-64.
“Alam ko naman kahit sino pwede mag-stepup dito e. Despite na marami yung injury, tapos si Kean [Baclaan] hindi pa pwede maglaro. Kaya ano lang, kinuha lang namin yung rhythm namin through hard defense,” said Bulldogs head coach Jeff Napa. “Ayun lang naman magiging bread and butter namin talaga eh.”
Galinato led the way for National University with 19 points, four assists, and a rebound. Figueroa produced 13 markers and three boards, while Robert Minerva added 11 points and four rebounds.
For Stags, Milo Janao finished with 13 points and three steals, while Rhinwil Yambing had 11 markers and two boards.
NU will be facing Adamson University in the semifinals on Thursday.
The Scores:
NU 75 — Galinato 19, Figueroa 13, Minerva 11, Casinillo 7, John 6, Manansala 5, Mahinay 4, Malonzo 3, Yu 3, Palacielo 2, Padrones 2.
San Sebastian 64 — Janao 13, Yambing 11, Escobido 8, Desoyo 7, Felebrico 7, Shanoda 5, Sumoda 4, Are 4, Cruz 2, Cosari 2, Suico 0, Calahat 0, Altamirano 0, Concha 0.
Quarterscores: 15-10, 33-29, 54-49, 75-64.
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The entire 2022 Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup will stream LIVE on Smart Sports Facebook page
