QUEZON CITY — National University handed the University of the Philippines its first setback of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament, securing a 72-64 victory on Saturday, September 26, at the Blue Eagle Gym.
The Bulldogs sparked an explosive start, seizing an early 20-4 advantage behind quick scoring from Reinhard Jumamoy and Mo Diassana. The cushion allowed NU to maintain control throughout the contest despite a late surge from the Fighting Maroons.
Miguel Yniguez attempted to fuel UP’s second-half rally by sinking consecutive three-pointers—including a four-point play—but NU contained the damage to protect the lead.
The victory marks NU’s second straight win, bringing their record to 2-1 and giving the program its first win over UP since the second round of Season 87.
With the loss, UP dropped to 2-1 after failing to build on the momentum of their initial two victories.
Jumamoy anchored the attack for head coach Jeff Napa, filling the stat sheet with 14 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Macmac Alfanta chipped in 13 points, while Paul Francisco registered 11. Diassana nearly recorded a double-double with 10 points and eight rebounds, alongside a block and a steal, while PJ Palacielo added nine points, five rebounds, and four assists.
Arvie Poyos top-scored for the Fighting Maroons with 13 points, four assists, and three steals. Veejay Pre and Yniguez added 11 and 10 points, respectively, as the trio served as UP’s sole double-digit scorers.
Following a week-off schedule, NU aims for its third consecutive win when it battles Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday, October 3, at the Blue Eagle Gym. UP will look to get back on track against Far Eastern University at the same venue on Sunday, October 4.