Far Eastern University-Diliman drew strength from guard LJ Gonzales to repeat over National University, 81-73, and reclaim the championship yesterday in the UAAP Season 79 juniors basketball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
With Gonzales’ foul trouble, the Bullpups raced to a 26-13 advantage, but the Baby Tamaraws refused to yield.
“Malaking bagay sa amin ’yung na-foul trouble si LJ. Walang nagpe-penetrate sa amin sa play at maganda ang ginawa ng NU,” said FEU-Diliman coach Allan Albano.
With Gonzales back in the groove, however, the Baby Tams seized the upper hand at 51-50 heading to the payoff period.
“Mabuti at nakabawi siya,” said Albano of Gonzales, who was named the Finals MVP.
The Bullpups last led, 63-60, on a Karl Peñano basket before Gonzales sparked the Baby Tamaraws’ 15-4 run for a 75-67 cushion entering the two-minute mark.
FEU-Diliman swept the best-of-three series, 2-0, for their first title since 2012.
Gonzales, who had a double-double outing in the Baby Tams’ 66-65 series opening victory, contributed 12 points, six assists and three boards.
Kenji Roman, one of five graduating FEU-Diliman graduating players, had a double-double effort of 18 points and 15 rebounds while RJ Abarrientos added 13 points, six boards and two steals.
Scores:
FEU 81 – Roman 18, Abarrientos 13, Gonzales 12, Gabane 10, Gloria 9, Jabel 5, Celzo 5, Torres 3, Sapinit 2, Baclay 2, Ro. Alforque 2, Ra. Alforque 0, Bieren 0, Sevilla 0.
NU 73 – Clemente 26, Peñano 10, Amsali 7, Manalang 7, Tolentino 6, Sarip 5, Malonzo 4, Coyoca 3, Callejo 3, Atienza 2, Dela Cruz 0, Fortea 0.
Quarters: 15-26; 30-34; 51-50; 81-73