NU stretches winning streak to 11 in UAAP women’s hoops

MANILA, Philippines – UP continued its remarkable rise from a 25-game losing skid, while defending champion National University extended its perfect run to 11 games Wednesday in the UAAP Season 78 women's basketball tournament at the Blue Eagle Gym.

The Lady Maroons fended off a late University of Santo Tomas fightback to eke out a 61-59 victory, to extend their winning streak to four games, while the Lady Bulldogs overwhelmed Ateneo, 70-43.

In other games, early semifinalist De La Salle routed Adamson University, 78-62, for its 10th win in 11 outings, while University of the East nipped Far Eastern University, 44-41, to boost its own semis bid.

Bea Daez hit a free throw and Patricia Pesquera grabbed the crucial rebound in the final 3.5 seconds to help UP preserve the victory.

Reigning MVP Afril Bernardino had 16 points, nine rebounds, five steals and three steals while Gemma Miranda tossed in 11 markers as the Lady Bulldogs led by as much as 33 points to prevail.

The Lady Maroons moved in a tie with the Lady Eagles at 4-7, now trailing joint third placers Tigresses and Lady Warriors (5-6) by just a game, bolstering their hopes of making it to the semifinals.

Pesquera had 14 points and 10 rebounds, Daez had 11 points, 10 boards and four assists while Janenna Tatel returned from a one-game absence to finish with 10 points and 15 boards for UP. Tin Aliermo also had 10 points and pulled down eight boards for the Lady Maroons.

Maica Cortes led UST with 17 points and 16 rebounds while Misaela Larosa added 12 markers.

Danica Jose was the lone bright spot for the Lady Eagles with 16 points and 12 boards.

The Lady Falcons and the Lady Tamaraws dropped to 3-8 and 2-9 records, respectively.