Archers whip Bulldogs, cop first women’s title in 11 years

MANILA, Philippines - La Salle bucked a near-meltdown in the last six minutes of play to post a 69-61 win over National U and capture the UAAP Season 76 women’s basketball diadem yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Archers blew a 17-point lead but survived the Lady Bulldogs’ furious fightback, getting the lift from the charities of Ara Abaca and Camille Claro and a spate of missed offensives from NU, to secure a 2-1 win in the series for the vacant crown.

La Salle broke an 11-year title drought in the women’s division, hiking its overall collection to five. 

“It’s been like 11 years (since DLSU last win the title), so this feels very great,” said coach Tyrone Bautista. “I’m actually happier for my players, knowing the hard work and sacrifices they put in for this one.

Bautista scored his breakthrough conquest in the league after falling short in his playing days with the Archers. He was part of the 1994-1996 DLSU team that settled for runner-up honors to then four-peat champs Santo Tomas.                ­