Aroga imposes will as Bulldogs nip Eagles

MANILA, Philippines -- National University imposed its size and romped away with a 76-66 victory over Ateneo in the 77th season of the UAAP men's basketball tourney at the Araneta Coliseum on Sunday.

Alfred Aroga led the charge with a monstrous performance, posting a double-double effort with 15 points and 11 rebounds while swatting away eight shots, including seven in the first half, that led to a 10-1 advantage in the blocks department.

"He (Aroga) was very focused today and he did his job well. He knows what he needs to do for us to grab rebounds and play defense. He is huge for us," said NU coach Eric Altamirano.

Aroga, for his part, echoed the sentiments of his coach.

"I was really prepared for this game. The win against Adamson was a boost for us. Ateneo is really good so coming to this game, I just want to help my team get rebounds and blocks," said the Cameroonian big man.

"To help my team, it’s not about scoring for me. It’s about getting rebounds and playing defense. I just tried my best today," he added.

Troy Rosario, Aroga's partner in the shaded lane, also made a good account himself with double-double effort of 14 markers and 10 boards. Additionally, Gelo Alolino, Nico Javelona and Glenn Khoubuntin scattered 13, 12 and 11 points in that order.

Altamirano also pointed out their strong start as one of the keys to the game.

"That really helped us a lot. We had a good offensive game, which is not normal for us. I think that gave us the cushion we needed for this game," he said.

The Eagles started the fourth quarter like a house on fire, with Fonso Gotladera going on a personal 8-0 run highlighted by an and-one play to cut the deficit, 55-60, at the 7:54 mark.

Not to be outdone, the Bulldogs responded with a 9-0 blast capped by a free throw from Javelona to take a 69-55 lead with 3:27 left and ultimately the victory.

Kiefer Ravena topscored for Ateneo with 21 points albeit on a 7-of-21 shooting while Chris Newsome and Gotladera chipped in 12 and 11 markers, respectively.

With the win, NU tied Ateneo in the standings with a 7-3 win-loss record behind league leaders DLSU and FEU (both 7-2).