Eaglets, Bullpups dispute title

Game today 4 p.m. – Ateneo vs NU (Jrs Finals) (Series tied at 1-1)

National U has the heart and momentum but Ateneo has the firepower and depth as they dispute the UAAP Season 80 juniors basketball crown in a sudden death today at the Filoil Flying V Center in San Juan.

The Bullpups forced the winner-take-all with a brave 70-67 victory in Game 2 last Tuesday, foiling the Blue Eaglets’ bid for a season sweep.

But Ateneo coach Joe Silva remains confident of their chances despite the setback that ended their 14-game win run with the Eaglets vowing to nail a record 19th title – and their first title in three years.

“That’s why we won Game 1, we still have a chance. Although the Game 2 defeat hurts,” said Silva.

The Eaglets hope to draw the best from prized center Kai Sotto, who put in a tripledouble effort in the series opener, including 11 shot blocks. He did churn out a 10-point, eight-rebound and five-block Tuesday but was held scoreless in the stretch by the tough defending Bullpups.

Meanwhile, NU guard Cyril Gonzales will miss the sudden death at 4 p.m. as he was sacked for kicking Allan Tañedo while going for the ball in front of Ateneo bench at the 7:54 mark of the third period.

NU mentor Goldwin Monteverde, however, hopes the bench will step up and complete their own crack at the championship.