MANILA, Philippines – The National University (NU) Bulldogs defeated the DLSU Green Archers, 85-69, in a practice game ahead of the UAAP Season 79 men’s basketball tournament held at the Kerry Sports Gym in Shangri-La, Fort, on Saturday, August 13.
It was an impressive win for the Bulldogs, who beat a nearly-complete DLSU line-up that many expect to be the favorite to win the collegiate league’s title this season. Kib Montalbo, La Salle’s incoming third-year guard, was the only regular rotation guy who did not play.
According to Quinito Henson, La Salle raced off to an early double-digit lead but NU was able to bounce back by figuring out the Green Archers’ press and getting baskets in the paint.
La Salle and National U split their season series last UAAP season, but both teams will look different this year with Gelo Alolino no longer playing point guard for the Bulldogs and the Green Archers having Ben Mbala.
DLSU went undefeated during the FilOil preseason tournament and won the championship, which has heightened expectations for the team for when the UAAP begins in September. – Rappler.com