Defending five-time champion National University overpowered Far Eastern University, 68-44, and advanced outright to the Finals for the fifth straight season via another double-round elimination sweep in the UAAP women’s basketball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
Reigning MVP Jack Danielle Animam had 19 points, 18 boards, two steals and two assists while Congolese Rhena Itesi chipped in 14 points and 14 rebounds as NU extended its five-year winning run to 78 games.
Adamson University secured a spot in the step-ladder semifinals berth and a playoff for the twice-to-beat bonus in the process following an 80-65 romp of Ateneo.
University of Santo Tomas lost a 10-point third quarter lead but regrouped late in the game to nip La Salle, 68-65, to extend its season and tie its victims at 8-6.
With their ninth win in 14 contests, the Lady Falcons will play the Lady Tamaraws in a playoff for the No. 2 ranking in the semis on Wednesday.
The Tigresses and the Lady Archers meet again in a do-or-die playoff for the last semifinals slot on Wednesday.
