Bulldogs close out campaign on high note

MANILA, Philippines — SMDC-National University wrapped up its 2019 PBA D-League campaign on a bright note as it turned back University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, 100-74, yesterday at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao, Quezon City.

After a miserable start of five straight losses, the Bulldogs strung up four straight wins with Dave Ildefonso, son of former PBA star and now NU assistant Danny Ildefonso, leading this one with a game-high 20 points to close out the tournament with a 4-5 record.

John Lloyd Clemente and Patrick Yu chipped in 16 and 13 points, respectively, while Senegalese Issa Gaye bulldozed his way to 11 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks to help the Jamike Jarin-mentored squad book the triumph.

The Altas, who were paced by Tonton Peralta’s 18 points, took their seventh loss in nine games.

The Bulldogs dictated the tone in the first half but never really got the chance to break loose to lead, 43-36, at the break.

But NU whipped up a third-quarter storm and made it a 67-48 lead at the end of the period and never looked back from there.

Che’Lu fought back from early double-digit deficits and escaped with a 77-72 victory over Family Mart-Enderun to boost its playoff stock.