NU Bulldogs 74 – 66 ADU Falcons
Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, May 21, 2026

The NU Bulldogs outlasted the ADU Falcons 74–66 in a hard‑fought matchup in the Philippines Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup on May 21, 2026. Both teams used the preseason platform to test rotations and build chemistry, but it was the Bulldogs’ defensive tenacity in the final quarter that sealed the victory.

Match Overview

The game started slowly, with both sides struggling to find rhythm early. The Falcons held a narrow 33–30 lead at halftime, relying on interior scoring and second‑chance points. The Bulldogs, however, tightened their defense after the break, forcing several shot‑clock violations and contested jumpers. The third quarter ended tied at 51‑51, setting up a tense final period.

Key Moments

• Second‑Half Adjustment: NU switched to a zone defense after halftime, disrupting the Falcons’ half‑court sets. ADU shot just 35% from the field in the second half, compared to 48% in the first.
• Fourth‑Quarter Clutch Play: With the score tied at 60‑60 with six minutes left, the Bulldogs went on a 10–2 run, highlighted by a steal and fast‑break dunk from guard K. Sacamayan. The Falcons could not recover, missing three straight three‑point attempts in the final two minutes.
• Free‑Throw Efficiency: NU converted 14 of 17 free throws in the fourth quarter, while ADU went just 6‑of‑10, a margin that proved crucial in the eight‑point final difference.

Standout Players

NU Bulldogs’ forward J. Manalang delivered a double‑double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, providing a strong presence on both ends. Guard R. Alcantara added 16 points and five assists, orchestrating the offense effectively in the fourth quarter. For the ADU Falcons, center L. Bautista led with 20 points and eight rebounds, but he received limited support from his teammates, as only one other Falcon reached double figures.

Preseason Implications

While the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup does not affect official league standings, this win gives the Bulldogs valuable momentum heading into the collegiate season. NU’s defensive identity and depth were on display, suggesting they could be a dark horse in the upcoming league tournament. The Falcons, meanwhile, will look to address their offensive inconsistency before the season opener.

Both teams will continue their preseason schedules next week, with the Bulldogs aiming to build on this gritty performance and the Falcons seeking to regroup and sharpen their execution.