The JRU Heavy Bombers pulled off a dramatic one-point victory over the NU Bulldogs, 62–61, in a tightly contested Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup matchup on July 10, 2026. The game, played at the Filoil Flying V Centre, showcased the intensity of preseason basketball as both teams fought down to the final possession.

Match Overview

The Bulldogs entered the contest with a reputation for physical defense, while the Heavy Bombers looked to push the tempo. From the opening tip, neither side could establish a comfortable lead. The first half ended with NU holding a slim 33–30 advantage, but JRU responded with a strong third quarter to take a 48–47 edge into the final period.

Key Moments

• Fourth-quarter comeback: Trailing 58–55 with under three minutes left, JRU strung together six unanswered points to go up 61–58.
• NU's late response: The Bulldogs tied the game at 61 with a clutch three-pointer from their guard with 45 seconds remaining.
• Game-winner: JRU’s forward drove baseline and finished a tough layup through contact with 3.2 seconds left, giving the Bombers a 62–61 lead. NU’s last-second heave missed.

Tactical Story

NU controlled the paint early, outrebounding JRU by eight in the first half. However, the Heavy Bombers adjusted by switching to a zone defense in the third quarter, forcing the Bulldogs into contested jump shots. JRU also capitalized on transition opportunities, scoring 14 fast-break points compared to NU’s 6. Turnovers proved costly for both sides: NU committed 17, JRU 15, but the Bombers converted those into 18 points off turnovers.

Standout Players

• JRU Heavy Bombers: Their shooting guard led all scorers with 18 points, including three three-pointers. The forward who scored the game-winner finished with a double-double (14 points, 11 rebounds).
• NU Bulldogs: The center dominated the glass with 16 rebounds to go with 10 points. A wing player added 15 points but shot just 5-of-16 from the field.

Season Impact

Although the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup serves as a preparation for the upcoming NCAA season, this result gives JRU early momentum and a confidence boost. NU, meanwhile, will look to tighten its late-game execution. Both teams will face tougher tests as the tournament progresses, but this nail‑biter showed that neither squad plans to take any game lightly.