MANILA, Philippines – National University bounced back from a disappointing loss to FEU in their previous outing, dominating a listless Adamson side, 71-50, in the 77th season of the UAAP men's basketball tournament the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
Gelo Alolino topscored with 14 points while Glenn Khoubuntin added 12 markers for the Bulldogs, who also six more players scoring at least five points.
NU improved their record to 6-3 (win-loss) and kept the solo fourth spot in the standings.
"We're just happy to get this win. We know how important this win is coming into the second round," said NU head coach Eric Altamirano.
Altamirano commended his bench with their superb performance in outscoring their Adamson counterparts 41-9.
"I think very pivotal talaga yung second quarter. Our second unit stepped up, they provided the spark and focused on defense," said Altamirano.
Facing a stiffer challenge from Adamson this time, it took a scintillating 22-0 run in the second canto from NU to take control of the game.
From there, NU took a 42-16 lead at the break and Adamson never threatened the rest of the way.
Don Trollano led the Falcons with 15 points while Jansen Rios added 10 markers for the San Marcelino-based squad.
The Falcons improved on their paltry effort in the first round when they only managed to score 25 points to the Bulldogs’ 62.
Adamson remains winless in nine games and is already out of contention for a Final Four slot.