NU moves 1 win away from UAAP title as MVP Bernardino stars anew

MANILA, Philippines – Newly minted back-to-back MVP Afril Bernardino had a double-double effort of 17 points and 18 rebounds as National University moved on the cusp of completing a second straight perfect season with a 91-59 drubbing of Ateneo in the UAAP Season 78 women's Finals opener at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Lady Bulldogs led by as much as 38 points to extend their winning streak to 38 games. Game 2 will be announced later.

Katrina Guytingco shot 14 points while Danica Jose, a member of the Mythical Team, added 13 points and 10 rebounds for the Lady Eagles.

The loss ended Ateneo's five-game winning streak which dated back in the elimination round. The Lady Eagles was the No. 4 seed in the playoffs.

The scores:

NU (91) – Bernardino 17, Paig 16, Gupilan 14, Miranda 9, Tongco 6, Itesi 6, Antiquera 5, Nabalan 4, Harada 4, Sison 3, Riel 3, Animam 2, Del Carmen 2, Abriam 0, Reyes 0, Layug 0.

Ateneo (59) – Guytingco 14, Jose 13, Aseron 9, Go 7, Yam 6, Deacon 4, Tomita 3, Buendia 2, Javier 1, Nitorreda 0.

Quarterscores: 21-10, 43-20, 65-36, 91-59