The NU Bulldogs edged out the FEU Tamaraws 73–69 in a tightly contested Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup clash on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Filoil Flying V Centre. The match, which tipped off at 5:00 PM local time, showcased two UAAP rivals trading blows in a game that came down to the final possessions.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the Preseason Cup looking to fine-tune their rotations and build chemistry ahead of the upcoming UAAP season. The Bulldogs used a strong defensive effort in the closing minutes to snap FEU’s momentum, holding the Tamaraws to just 12 points in the fourth quarter while scoring 18 themselves to secure the comeback victory.

First Half: FEU Sets the Pace

The Tamaraws started the game with intensity, using quick ball movement and sharp outside shooting to build a 10-point lead in the second quarter. FEU’s frontcourt dominated the boards early, limiting the Bulldogs to one-and-done possessions. At halftime, FEU held a 39–33 advantage, with their bench contributing 14 points to keep the pressure on NU.

Second Half: NU Grinds Back

NU head coach Jeff Napa adjusted the defensive scheme at the break, switching to a matchup zone that disrupted FEU’s rhythm. The Bulldogs crept back into the game in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to 55–54 entering the final frame. Guard Kean Baclaan sparked the run with eight points and two steals in the period, while forward Jake Figueroa provided a physical presence in the paint.

Key Moments

• 4:12 remaining in the fourth: Baclaan hit a step‑back three to give NU a 66–64 lead – their first advantage since the opening minutes.
• 2:01 left: FEU’s Xyrus Torres answered with a pull‑up jumper to tie the game at 68–68.
• 1:15 on the clock: NU center Omar John tipped in an offensive rebound to make it 71–69, a lead the Bulldogs never surrendered.
• Final 10 seconds: After a defensive stop, John split a pair of free throws to seal the 73–69 win.

Standout Players

Kean Baclaan (NU) finished with a game-high 22 points on 8-of-14 shooting, adding 5 assists and 3 steals. His ability to create off the dribble was crucial in breaking FEU’s defensive pressure.
Omar John (NU) recorded a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds, including 6 offensive boards that kept possessions alive.
Xyrus Torres (FEU) led the Tamaraws with 18 points, but struggled with efficiency in the second half, shooting just 2-of-7 after intermission.
RJ Abarrientos (FEU) contributed 11 points and 6 assists, though the Bulldogs’ zone contained his drives down the stretch.

Season Impact

The victory improves NU’s preseason record to 3–1 and positions them as a serious contender in the upcoming UAAP season. For FEU, the loss drops them to 2–2, exposing areas in late-game execution and perimeter defense that coach Sean Chambers will look to address before the league proper begins. The rivalry remains as heated as ever, with both teams likely to meet again in the UAAP elimination round later this year.

The Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup continues to provide high‑stakes matchups that give fans a preview of the talent and intensity expected in the main UAAP season.