Veejay Pre delivered a standout double-double performance to power the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons past the National University (NU) Bulldogs, keeping their perfect record intact in the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.
Pre finished with 18 points and 12 rebounds, leading UP to a convincing 76-62 victory. The win extends the Maroons' winning streak to five games, solidifying their position as a top contender in the preseason tournament.
From the opening tip, UP controlled the tempo, building a double-digit lead by halftime. Pre's inside presence and efficiency on the boards proved too much for NU to handle. He also chipped in three assists and two blocks, showcasing his all-around game.
NU tried to mount a comeback in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to single digits, but Pre and the Maroons responded with a decisive run to close out the period. UP's defense tightened in the final frame, holding NU to just 14 points.
Supporting Pre, JD Cagulangan added 14 points and six assists, while Carl Tamayo contributed 12 points and eight rebounds. For NU, John Lloyd Clemente led the way with 16 points, but the Bulldogs struggled with turnovers and poor shooting from beyond the arc.
UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde praised his team's composure and execution. "We stuck to our game plan and defended well. Veejay was a leader out there," he said.
The Maroons will look to keep their unbeaten run going in their next matchup, while NU aims to bounce back and improve their standings.