By: Leiniel Santos
National University-Nazareth School claimed two championships at the Manila Live NBTC Tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Lady Bullpups triumphed in the 19-and-under girls’ division, securing an 83-79 victory over Fil-Am Jo Koy, while the Bullpups defeated Fil-Am The Truth, 92-84.
It was a hard-fought battle, with Fil-Am Jo Koy briefly taking the lead late in the game, 75-74.
However, Bullpup Alicia Villanueva delivered a clutch three-pointer, swinging the momentum back to NU-Nazareth at 77-75, sealing the win.
Three Lady Bullpups finished in double digits: Aubrey Lapasaran with 20 points, three rebounds, and three assists; Alicia Villanueva with 19 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists; and KJ Badajos with 16 points, two rebounds, and two assists.
Meanwhile, the Bullpups led by as much as 18 points, 71-53, before ‘The Truth’ mounted a comeback with an 18-4 run, cutting the Bullpups’ advantage to just four points, 71-65.
With momentum shifting, Bullpup Sofiane Bouriza nailed a crucial three-pointer, stopping Fil-Am’s run and restoring order.
Despite a back-and-forth exchange of baskets, the Bullpups were able to maintain their lead, preventing Fil-Am from reclaiming the advantage.
Shaun Lucido starred for the Bullpups, scoring an impressive 31 points, along with six rebounds and seven assists.
Allan Timbang and Sofiane Bouriza each contributed 14 points, while Rhon-J Matias added 10 points, four rebounds, and one assist.
For The Truth, five players scored in double figures, with Joey Villegas leading the charge with 20 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Julian Zapanta recorded a double-double with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and two assists.
Earl Santos added 14 points, Rach Ramos contributed 12, and Lans Lagdamen chipped in 10.
For Jo Koy, Aliyahna Morris led the scoring with 25 points, nine rebounds, and two assists, while Sumayah Sugapong made a significant contribution with 24 points, four rebounds, and five assists.
