National University and University of the Perpetual Help set up a title clash after dispatching their respective semifinals foes in the PG Flex Linoleum UCBL Pre-Season Tournament Friday at the SGS gym in Quezon City.
The Bulldogs mauled UAAP rival Adamson University, 86-53 while the Altas outlasted Centro Escolar University, 85-81, to arrange their UCBL Finals showdown on Monday.
NU stepped its foot on the gas pedal in the second quarter and practically disarmed Adamson as it erected a lead that went as high as 36 points, 79-43, early in the final frame.
John Galinato sizzled with 20 points on an efficient 8-of-9 clip from the field including three rainbow connections while John Lloyd Clemente provided ample support with 15 points and five rebounds.
Perpetual, on the other hand, pulled away from a 74-all deadlock with a little over five minutes left in the game using a swift 8-0 spurt to create enough breathing space, 82-74 with 1:46 remaining.
The Scorpions made a last-ditch run and came within one, 82-81, but the Altas proved to be steady from the charity stripe to seal their spot into the next round.
Carlo Ferreras erupted for 27 points on top of his four rebounds and four assists although he got timely hits from Lean Martel and Jeff Egan in the end game to fend off the gallant Scorpions.
Over at the classification matches, Enderun College downed La Consolacion College, 75-68 while University of Batangas survived Lyceum of the Philippines University, 89-84.
Anthony Frasman came one rebound shy of a double-double with 14 points and nine rebounds to show the way for the Titans who got three other players breaching the double-digit mark in scoring.
Jan Derick Villarez also had a stellar game of 23 points, 11 boards and five assists for the Brahmans while Joseph Torres and Melvin Macana chipped in 17 points apiece.
