Camille Clarin’s clutch heroics steer NU to victory vs UP

Camille Clarin delivered a game-winning three-pointer that propelled National University’s come-from-behind, 64-59, victory over University of the Philippines in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion on Sunday, November 03.

The Lady Bulldogs rallied from a 44-48 deficit thanks to a 13-point fourth quarter performance by Clarin, who had only three points going into the final period before erupting four three-pointers and a free throw.

The 5-foot-9 veteran guard finished with 16 points, five assists, and four rebounds for an all-around performance.

“It was a timely hit by CC late in the fourth. Credit to her because she made four three-point shots in the game. Her first seven attempts failed, but she didn’t lose focus or confidence to take the shot when it mattered the most,” said NU head coach Aris Dimaunahan.

Clarin teamed up with Maymay Canuto, Tin Cayabyab, Angel Surada, and Jainaba Konateh to orchestrate a 16-2 run to give the Lady Bulldogs a 60-50 cushion with 5:41 left on the clock.

But the Fighting Maroons remained strong. With three minutes remaining, Kaye Pesquera led UP to a 9-0 run of her own to reduce the margin to one, 60-59, as both teams missed critical shots in the closing minutes. 

But Clarin made another three-pointer to put the Lady Bulldogs ahead 63-59 by four points.

The Lady Bulldogs improved their record to a perfect 10-0 ahead of their showdown against University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses on Wednesday, November 6, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Scores: 

NU 64 – Clarin 16, Pingol 14, Pagdulagan 11, Surada 10, Cayabyab 7, Konateh 4, Canuto 1, Betanio 1, Fabruada 0, Solis 0, Villanueva 0.

UP 59 – Pesquera 16, Ozar 9, Bariquit 6, Maw 6, Tapawan 4, Sauz 4, Nolasco 4, Vingno 3, Jimenez 3, Solitario 2, Lozada 2, Quinquinio 0, Barba 0.

Quarter Scores: 8-17, 25-29, 44-48, 64-59.