NU Holds Off UP Comeback, Advances to NSAC Semifinals

National University survived a furious second-half comeback by the University of the Philippines and escaped with a 67-64 victory, punching its ticket to the semifinals of the NSAC College Basketball Campus Tour on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

The Bulldogs looked headed for a comfortable win after dominating the opening half behind their defense and transition game. NU built a double-digit cushion early before stretching the lead to as much as 20 points early in the third quarter.

Reinhard Jumamoy once again led the charge for the Bulldogs, finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds, and four assists to earn Best Player of the Game honors. PJ Palacielo added 18 points, while Paul Francisco chipped in 14 markers and six rebounds.

UP, however, refused to go away quietly.

After struggling offensively in the first half, Noy Remogat caught fire in the second half and carried the Fighting Maroons back into the contest. The UP guard finished with 21 points, five rebounds, and nine assists, repeatedly attacking NU’s defense while orchestrating the comeback.

The Fighting Maroons slowly chipped away at the deficit behind their defensive pressure and improved shot-making. Veejay Pre contributed 12 points, while Jacob Bayla added seven markers.

UP eventually trimmed the deficit to a single possession late in the fourth quarter, putting NU under pressure after controlling most of the game.

But the Bulldogs held firm in the closing moments.

NU came up with key defensive stops and timely possessions down the stretch to preserve the victory and secure its place in the semifinals.

The Bulldogs finished with 24 points in the paint and forced 20 UP turnovers, which proved crucial in surviving the late rally.

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