Gerry Abadiano fired 17 points for the Nazareth School of National University Bullpups as they whipped the University of the East Junior Warriors, 77-56, yesterday and firmed up their grip of the Final Four semifinals in the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines Junior Basketball Tournament.
Big man Kevin Quiambao added 14 points and 14 rebounds for the Bulldogs, who moved a win closer to a twice-to-beat advantage with their 11-1 win-loss record, and as action ended at the Arena in San Juan.
The defending champion Ateneo Blue Eaglets kept their chances alive in joining the Bullpups in the Final Four with their 87-78 beating of the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs, and with their 9-4 slate in third.
The Bullpups took control of the game in the third period, after Quiambao struck from underneath and Rey Torres scored on a three-point play in the last 7:15.
In the third period, Tamayo eked out nine points in the last 3:52 as the Bullpups went on to hike their lead to 16, 72-54.
Tamayo’s big game came in the absence of ace scorer Terrence Fortea, who is serving a one-game suspension.
Kai Sotto provided big baskets for the Blue Eaglets with 33 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists.
And he got support from starting point guard Ian Espinosa and power forward Geo Chiu, who had 15 points apiece.
The Tigers, with Mark Nonoy making 27 points, enjoyed a 42-32 edge at halftime.
But the Blue Eaglets turned the tables around in the third period.
Sotto and Forthsky Padrigao, combined for the 14-0 run in the third period.
Shattering a 40-all deadlock, the Blue Eaglets went on to take a 63-54 before the fourth.
Box Scores:
NU 77 – Abadiano 17, Tamayo 15, Quiambao 15, Torres 6, Javillonar 6, Gonzales 4, Enriquez 4, Songcuya 3, Alarcon 2, Mailim 2, Vinoya 2, Abiera 2, Felicilda 0, Dayrit 0, Buensalida 0.
UE 56 – Dichoso 24, Tajonera 9, Alinsoring 8, Sullano 4, Manaug 4, Gatdula 3, Flores 2, Agbas 2, Almacen 0, Lima 0, Villarta 0, Santos 0, Tan
Quarter Scores: 19-12, 38-36, 57-52, 77-56.