Naveen Ganglani
STROKING IT. Matt Salem had 8 points in NU's big third period. File photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – The NU Bulldogs started the third quarter with intensity on the defensive end and hot shooting on offense to pull away from the Ateneo Blue Eagles and come away with the win, 70-60, on Sunday, September 11, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
The win gave National U a 2-0 record to open UAAP Season 79, while Ateneo’s loss dropped its record to 1-1.
Third-year guard Rev Diputado had an all-around performance with 16 points, 7 boards, and 3 assists, while stretch big man Matt Salem stepped up with 12 points, including 8 in the game-changing third quarter, plus 8 rebounds. Alfred Aroga also played well with 11 points and 6 boards.
After leading Ateneo in its last win vs UST, Aaron Black and Thirdy Ravena combined for only 6 points on 3-of-16 shooting on Sunday. Mike Nieto had 14 points and 5 boards for the Blue Eagles.
NU out-scored Ateneo 20-9 in the third quarter and limited the Blue Eagles to only 36% shooting overall. The Bulldogs converted 41% of their attempts and out-rebounded their opponents, 46-39. – Rappler.com
