The DLSU Green Archers held off the defending champion NU Bulldogs to win their opening game in UAAP Season 78, 67-63, on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Led by the 18 points of fourth-year forward Jeron Teng, DLSU led by double digits for most of the final two quarters before coming up with big plays down the stretch to stave off the Bulldogs’ rally.
Jason Perkins also played an impressive game with 13 points and 12 rebounds while freshman Andrei Caracut scored 13 points in his first game.
La Salle sealed the win after two free throws by Perkins put the team up 62-59, followed by a tough jump shot by Teng that increased the lead to five with 23 seconds left.
Gelo Alolino topscored for National University with 16 points.
Prince Rivero and Julian Sargent both played well for La Salle as they combined for 17 points. Thomas Torres and Abu Tratter both had three points each.
Rookies Jollo Go and Andrew Langston didn’t score in their college debuts.
La Salle’s next game is against UP on Wednesday. The Fighting Maroons are currently 1-0 after defeating University of the East yesterday.
The scores:
DLSU 67 – Teng 18, Caracut 13, Perkins 13, Rivero 11, Sargent 6, Torres 3, Trater 3, Go 0, Langston 0
NU 63 – Alolino 16, Alejandro 15, Aroga 9, Diputado 8, Javelona 4, Salim 4, Neypes 3, Javillionar 2, Morido 2, Abatayo 0, Celda 0, Rangel 0, Tansingco 0
Quarterscores: 16-6, 33-23, 51-40, 67-63