National University took out Ateneo de Manila University, 83-64, on Wednesday to secure its place in Season 85 University Athletic Association of the Philippines women's basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

It will be the Lady Bulldogs' eight straight appearance in the championships and the survivor of the battle between University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle will earn the right to vie for the coveted crown.

The Lady Archers had the chance to formalize a title duel with the Lady Bulldogs but the Lady Tigresses registered a 68-57 conquest over the twice-to-beat Taft-based team.

Trailing by 13 at the half, Sarah Makanjuola and LJ Miranda teamed up to pull the Blue Eagles within six at the 6:04 mark of the third frame, 54-48.

But Camille Clarin, Aloha Betanio, Tin Cayabyab, Annick Edimo Tiky, and Ann Pingol joined hands to restore a commanding 21-point lead for NU with 6:54 left in the game, 71-50.

"I have to give credit to our ladies for putting in the work. They just kept on fighting and stayed together," said Lady Bulldogs coach Aris Dimaunahan.

Clarin made five triples on her way to 19 points with three rebounds and three assists, while Mikka Cacho got 15 points, 13 in the first half.

Edimo Tiky chipped in 10 points and six rebounds while Gypsy Canuto got eight points and 10 assists.

Kacey dela Rosa led the way for Ateneo with 22 points, 18 rebounds and seven shot blocks.

With the loss, Joson played her last game for Ateneo, which finished the tournament at fourth place.

In the UST-La Salle match, Erika Soriano also put up huge numbers of 23 points, 11 boards, five feeds and two steals.