In an exhilarating match-up that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill to secure a narrow victory over the University of Santo Tomas (UST) with a final score of 72-70. This victory in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 86 women’s basketball finals, held at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, has kept NU’s aspirations for an eighth consecutive championship triumph very much alive.
The standout player for the NU Lady Bulldogs was Camille Clarin, who not only scored an impressive 18 points but also provided eight assists, earning the Player of the Game honors. Her performance was pivotal in steering the team towards victory. Karl Pingol and Princess Fabruada significantly contributed to the team’s success, scoring 12 and 13 points, respectively. This win sets the stage for the Lady Bulldogs to enter their first Game 3 since the Finals of UAAP Season 76.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions and intensity, especially in the final moments. With a narrow two-point lead late in the final quarter, Clarin had an opportunity to seal the game but missed both her shots, leaving the door open for a UST comeback. However, Kent Pastrana of UST, despite a valiant effort, missed a crucial long deuce that could have tied the game and pushed it into overtime.
UST’s Growling Tigresses showcased their fighting spirit throughout the match. Despite being down by six points with less than four minutes left in the game, they managed to close the gap to just two points, thanks to a scoring spree led by Reynalyn Ferrer. Pastrana, Ferrer, and Rocel Dionisio each scored 15 points for UST, while Ana Tacatac added 12 points.
The decisive Game 3 of the series is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6, at the same venue. This upcoming match promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a series that has displayed the best of women’s college basketball, with both teams showing incredible determination and skill.