Under the weather but unshaken, Jake Figueroa powered through to deliver yet another big-time performance for the league-leading NU Bulldogs against Ateneo in UAAP Season 88.
Not even being under the weather could stop Jake Figueroa from putting up another big-time performance for the league-leading National University.
The undisputed heart and soul of the Bulldogs once again delivered in their second-round win against Ateneo, powering NU to a 7-2 record in UAAP Season 88.
[ALSO READ: NU overcomes Gelo Santiago’s ejection, hands Ateneo fifth straight loss in UAAP Season 88]
While his line of 17 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists was nothing short of impressive, Figueroa credited his gutsy performance to more of sheer will.
“Nagkasabay lang ‘yung sakit ng ulo, sipon pero happy naman ako kasi nag-adjust ako kahit papaano. Parang adrenaline na rin ‘yung gumana (sa huli),” Figueroa told One Sports.
His 13-point second-half surge fueled a pivotal 16-0 run that flipped a 32-40 deficit into a commanding 46-40 advantage for the Bulldogs.
From there, the Bulldogs took full control, leading by as many as 16 markers and sending the Blue Eagles to their fifth consecutive loss.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Jumamoy-Enriquez duo play key complementary roles as NU regains winning form]
“Naging composed lang kami. Kahit lamang sila, hindi kami na-rattle kaya siguro nakalamang kami and nanalo,” Figueroa added.
With the win, NU widened its cushion at the top of the standings, holding a full one game lead over UP, and two games over La Salle and UST.
The Bulldogs will enjoy a six-day breather before resuming their second-round campaign against the Green Archers on Sunday, November 2.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | UAAP Season 88 basketball guide, where to watch, highlights, more]
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Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022.
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.