Bullpups near sweep; Eaglets gain bonus

MANILA, Philippines - National University moved to within a win from sweeping the elims while Ateneo secured a semifinals berth with a twice-to beat advantage as they whipped separate foes in UAAP Season 76 juniors basketball tournament at the Blue Eagle Gym over the weekend.

The Bullpups raced to a huge 26-point lead in the third period and went on to clobber UP Integrated school, 83-58 for a perfect 13-0 record.

Hubert Cani sizzled for 27 points while John Cauilan had a double-double of 22 points and 16 boards for the Bullpups, who boosted their chances of clinching an outright finals berth with a “thrice to beat” incentive.

Leading MVP candidate Thirdy Ravena had another all-around effort with 12 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists as the Blue Eaglets slipped past University of the East Junior Warriors, 68-49, for their 11th victory in 13 outings.

Meanwhile, La Salle-Zobel and defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman formalized their entry to the playoffs with 9-4 and 8-5 records, respectively as they disposed of Adamson University and UST.

The Baby Tamaraws clobbered Adamson Baby Falcons, 67-42 with Richard Escoto tallying 20 points and five rebounds while the Junior Archers, behind Renzo Subido’s 18 markers, survived the Tiger Cubs with a hard-fought 49-46 victory.

Only Ateneo has a chance to spoil NU’s double-round sweep as they battle each other on the final day of eliminations on Friday.