UP dominates UE to remain unbeaten; NU scores comeback win vs. FEU

The University of the Philippines turned to its old reliable JD Cagulangan in its 81-71 triumph over University of the East to maintain its perfect record in the UAAP Season 87 on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

The 5-foot-9 guard led the way with 21 points behind a scorching 5-of-six shooting from outside to go along with seven rebounds and four assists as they improved to 2-0 while the Red Warriors fell to a 0-2 hole. 

Mark Belmonte and Harold Alarcon each tallied nine markers while Francis Lopez chipped in seven points, highlighted by a dunk off a Gerry Abadiano dish that sent them to a lead as big as 17, 69-42. 

UE, meanwhile, leaned on Precious Momowei who dropped a double-double of 20 points and 13 rebounds laced with three blocks in the losing cause while Wello Lingolingo contributed 11 markers.

In the first game, National University came from behind to pull off a tight 62-60 win against Far Eastern University and nail its breakthrough win in the season. 

The Bulldogs, who were coming off a narrow loss to De La Salle University last Sunday, improved to 1-1 thanks to the timely freethrows from PJ Palacielo as they roared back from 17 points down to enter the win column. 

With no one from NU reaching double digit mark, Palacielo emerged as the top scorer with nine points alongside six rebounds, two assists, and one steal while Jake Figueroa added eight markers. 

FEU, meanwhile, sank to a 0-2 slate despite getting solid outing from Mohamed Konatehw, who shone with 17 points, 16 rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and one steal. 

—JKC, GMA Integrated News