The Asiabasket 2025 College Campus Tour tipped off at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center in Ateneo de Manila University, featuring an action-packed slate of games between top collegiate teams from the UAAP, NCAA, and NAASCU. Fans witnessed dominant performances, thrilling finishes, and strong statements from powerhouse squads.

NU shuts down Perpetual, 61-48

The NU Bulldogs set the tone for the tournament with a defensive masterclass, holding the Perpetual Altas scoreless for the first five minutes and establishing a commanding 21-6 first-quarter lead. NU’s suffocating defense forced 20 points off turnovers while outscoring Perpetual 30-18 in the paint.

Big man Omar John led the way with a double-double of 14 points (on 6-of-7 shooting) and 10 rebounds, while captain Tebol Garcia added 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists. Despite a late third-quarter surge from Perpetual that trimmed the deficit to five, NU clamped down in the final period to secure the win.

“We stuck to our game plan and stayed aggressive on defense,” Garcia said.

La Casinillo paced Perpetual with 10 points in a losing effort.

DLSU overpowers UE, 85-67

The DLSU Green Archers flexed their firepower, overwhelming the UE Red Warriors with a high-tempo attack. A 31-19 first-quarter explosion set the tone, with La Salle’s relentless pressure forcing 25 points off turnovers.

Mason Amos delivered 16 points and 8 rebounds, while Mike Phillips nearly recorded a triple-double with 15 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals. DLSU’s depth proved key, as their bench contributed 34 points to keep the pressure on UE throughout the game.

UE’s John Abate put up a fight with 17 points and 4 rebounds, while Wello Lingolingo added 16 points on 7-of-13 shooting. However, a decisive 15-5 run in the third quarter put the game out of reach.

“Our defensive pressure was the key,” said Phillips. “We kept them uncomfortable and took advantage of our opportunities.”

FEU edges Adamson in gritty 55-53 thriller

The tightest game of the day saw FEU and Adamson engage in a back-and-forth battle that featured 10 lead changes and 6 ties. The Tamaraws built an early 14-8 lead before Adamson responded with a 13-0 run to take control before halftime.

Mo Konateh anchored FEU with a dominant 13-point, 13-rebound double-double, while Luke Felipe and Montell Shelton chipped in key baskets down the stretch. The Tamaraws secured the win with clutch free throws and a late defensive stand.

Adamson’s Matthew Montebon finished with 11 points, while Ray Allen Torres added 6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in a valiant effort.

“It was all about composure in the final minutes,” said Konateh.

Ateneo dominates St. Clare, 107-48

In the final game, Ateneo put on an offensive clinic, dismantling St. Clare from the opening tip. The Blue Eagles raced to a 30-7 first-quarter lead, using suffocating full-court pressure and seamless ball movement to overwhelm their opponents.

Divine Adili was the standout performer, delivering 19 points and 15 rebounds. Kyle Daven Gamber was flawless from the field, scoring 14 points on 5-of-5 shooting, while Andrew Victor Bongo added 14 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists.

St. Clare’s Mark Angelo Ibanez led his team with 8 points, but Ateneo’s relentless pace and a 17-0 third-quarter run sealed the game.

“We wanted to send a message with our energy and execution,” Adili said.

With the opening day setting the stage for an exciting tournament, teams will look to build momentum in the upcoming games.