Defending five-time champion National University overpowered Far Eastern University, 68-44, to jump straight to the finals for the fifth straight season via another double-round elimination sweep Friday in the UAAP Season 81 women’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
“I’m just happy na na-accomplish namin muli ‘yung 14-0. We’re just waiting for the championship kung sino man, but still ‘yung job namin is not yet done. We hope na we get the championship, that’s the most important thing this season,” said coach Pat Aquino after his Lady Bulldogs made it to the title round for the second straight year.
Reigning MVP Jack Danielle Animam had 19 points, 18 boards, two steals and two assists while Congo’s Rhena Itesi chipped in 14 points and 14 rebounds as NU extended its five-year winning run to 78 games.
Adamson University secured a spot in the step-ladder semifinals and a playoff for the twice-to-beat bonus in the process following an 80-65 beating of Ateneo.
University of Santo Tomas lost a 10-point third quarter lead, but regrouped late in the game to nip De La Salle, 68-65, extend its season and tie its victims at 8-6.
With their ninth win in 14 contests, the Lady Falcons will play the Lady Tamaraws in a playoff for the No. 2 ranking in the semis on Wednesday.
On the same day, the Tigresses and the Lady Archers meet again in a do-or-die playoff for the last semifinals slot.
Mariz Cacho scored 20 points, while Nathalie Prado also had 20 points and pulled down 12 rebounds for Adamson University, which finished the elims with back-to-back wins.
University of the East beat fellow also-ran University of the Philippines, 71-56, to cap its season with two consecutive wins.
The Lady Warriors, who placed second last year, ended up tied with the Lady Eagles in sixth and seven spots at 4-10.
Schedule today (Mall of Asia Arena)
2 p.m. – Cheerdance Competition
