The NU Lady Bulldogs look to steady themselves and reclaim control as they face the UST Growling Tigresses in a winner-take-all Game 3 of the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball Finals.
National University turns to its battle-tested core as it braces for an all-or-nothing showdown against the University of Santo Tomas in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball Finals on Sunday, December 14, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
After absorbing a blowout loss in Game 2, the defending champion Lady Bulldogs are eager to regroup and respond, knowing that one strong performance separates them from a ninth title in the last 10 seasons.
At the center of that response is Tin Cayabyab, whose steady presence and two-way impact remain vital in NU’s pursuit of another championship.
Cayabyab was one of the few constants for NU in the Game 2 defeat, finishing with 22 points and seven rebounds while carrying the offensive load during stretches when the Lady Bulldogs struggled to find rhythm.
NU knows it must be sharper in Game 3, particularly in ball security and transition defense. In Game 2, the Lady Bulldogs were forced into 23 turnovers, which the Growling Tigresses converted into easy points.
Alongside Cayabyab, NU will continue to rely on Marga Villanueva, Ann Pingol, and Angel Surada to provide scoring and defensive pressure as they look to reassert their championship composure after being pushed to a third game for the third straight Finals meeting with UST.
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The rivalry’s history suggests that Game 3s rarely follow the script of the previous outing. NU has thrived in these pressure-packed moments before, leaning on its experience, discipline, and ability to make timely adjustments.
With everything on the line and no margin for error, NU enters Game 3 ready to fight for every possession and eager to defend its crown.
Tip-off is at 1:00 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo/One Sports)
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[Editor’s note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]