Manila: Unbeaten National University Nazareth School (NUNS) has advanced to the Final Four after defeating Adamson University, 83-71, during the UAAP Season 88 boys’ basketball match held at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
According to Philippines News Agency, Malian center Moussa Diakite was instrumental in the Bullpups’ victory, recording 18 points, 14 rebounds, 10 blocks, and three assists. This performance marked his third triple-double of the season, following similar achievements by University of Santo Tomas (UST) point guard Rowie Caba±ero on October 15 and NUNS’ Clark Khobuntin on October 8.
NUNS coach Leo Pujante expressed satisfaction with the win but noted areas for improvement. “Of course, we’re happy. It’s just that there were times when they relaxed. They still have bad habits of relaxing, so that’s what needs to be corrected even though we are in the Final Four,” Pujante stated post-game.
Nick Pe±a was the leading scorer for the Bullpups with 21 points, adding four assists, two rebounds, and two steals. Dean Tria and David Sabareza also made significant contributions, scoring 11 and 10 points, respectively, with additional assists and rebounds. NUNS maintained a strong lead, reaching 75-55 with under four minutes remaining.
For Adamson, Fran Flores and Kieff Iledan were notable performers. Flores scored 13 points, while Iledan contributed a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Adamson’s defeat places them in fifth position with a 6-5 record.
In another match, defending champion University of the East (UE) secured a decisive 76-29 victory over University of the Philippines Integrated School. This win keeps UE in fourth place with a 7-4 record, behind Far Eastern University-Diliman and UST.
UE coach Matthew Sia expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting their ability to share the ball and improve their playmaking. Sean Felizmenia led the Junior Warriors with 12 points, supported by Goodluck Okebata and Zion Aguilar with 11 and nine points, respectively.
