NU beats UST 67-62 in UAAP men's basketball

National University (NU) secured their second consecutive win by defeating the University of Santo Tomas (UST) 67-62 in a crucial UAAP Season 87 men's tournament match on Wednesday evening at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Coach Jeff Napa emphasized that NU's recent victories are not due to luck but hard work, noting that despite being undermanned without import Mo Diassana due to injury, his team has kept their slim Final Four bid alive with a 4-8 record.

Jolo Manansala led the Bulldogs with 18 points and seven rebounds, while PJ Palacielo contributed 15 points and six rebounds, and Jake Figueroa added a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Nic Cabanero scored 19 points for UST, Mo Tounkara added 15 points and grabbed 18 rebounds, but the Tigers fell short despite their efforts.

Coach Napa expressed irritation over critics who dismissed NU's recent victories as luck, asserting that his team’s success is a result of playing the right way.

With only two games left in the season, NU faces must-win situations against Adamson University (4-7) and defending champion De La Salle University (11-1).

Coach Napa urged his team to finish strong and remain thankful for their accomplishments as they compete at the highest level despite challenges.