OVER THE HURDLE. Nico Salva (I AB IS) is challenged by National University’s Chuck Berry in the Blue Eagles’ 83-58 victory over the NU Bulldogs last August 30.

WITH ONE game remaining in the elimination round, Ateneo secured first place and twice-to-beat advantage in Season 71 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines.

Ateneo 83, NU 58

The Ateneo Blue Eagles dismantled the National University Bulldogs, 83-58, last August 30 at the PhilSports Arena.

Rabeh Al-Hussaini (IV AB IS) led the way for the Blue Eagles, who had to contend with a defensive Bulldog squad from the opening tip. His inside presence helped Ateneo lock the top spot with a 12-1 record.

Although Ateneo took a 23-7 lead midway through the first quarter, the Bulldogs responded, taking their only lead of the game at 32-31 after a Jonathan Jahnke lay-up. However, Chris Tiu (V BSM AMF) scored nine consecutive points in the second quarter to stop an NU attack that threatened to break Ateneo’s six-game winning streak.

The Eagles continued to knock down one three-pointer after another to turn the game in their favor, capped off by an Eric Salamat (III AB IS) three at the halftime buzzer. The shot swung the momentum towards the Blue Eagles, who would not let the Bulldogs come closer than eight points the rest of the way.

The game saw tempers flaring from the Bulldogs, after a technical foul was slapped on Aaron Galapon and unsportsmanlike fouls were called on Edwin Asoro and Raymond Aguilar.

“We’re only halfway and the championship is still far from our reach. We have to continue playing defense and let our offense come through,” said Al-Hussaini in a mix of English and Filipino.

Al-Hussaini led all scorers with 20 points. Tiu, Salamat, and Jai Reyes (IV BS CTM) added 16, 12, and 11 points, respectively. With the win, Ateneo now faces the De La Salle Green Archers on September 6 in their much-awaited rematch to end the elimination round.

With reports from Rey Angelo D. Laxa