NU tossers finally deliver

By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA

Tired of being second-best over the last three years, National University made sure they would not come out short again as the Bulldogs put on another brilliant show to finally end years of futility.

Not only did they win the title, they also got redemption by beating the fancied Ateneo squad.

NU coach Dante Alinsunurin said their new-found resolve was the reason why they refused to blink when faced with challenges, including going up against a giant in Ateneo.

“Kumbaga sa tao-tao lang, lamang na kami, kaya nung nakita na namin yung pagkakataon na makuha yung kampeonato, hindi na namin pinalagpas,” said Alinsunurin.

He also credited the team’s maturity for the win, saying most of his players have learned lessons well following their stinging defeat last year.

“Tumaas yung kumpiyansa nila, yung maturity. Every time na may sitwasyon na bago, kaya na nilang lagpasan. Sabi ko nga, yung mga mali natin last year, hindi na pwedeng maulit ngayong taon,” Alinsunurin said.

Indeed, the Bulldogs were authoritative from the start, finishing the eliminations on top to gain a twice-to-beat incentive in the semifinals.

They toppled the University of Santo Tomas Tigers to book a championship ticket and then ended the Ateneo Eagles’ three-year-old reign by sweeping the best-of-three finals series.

“Hindi na namin binitawan, hanggang sa dulo nilaban na namin,” said Finals Most Valuable Player Bryan Bagunas of their thrilling 25-20, 31-29, 22-25, 33-31 Game 2 win.

Now that they have savored the sweet taste of success, the Bulldogs hope to stay on top.