Bulldogs aim to stay hot

National University is aiming to end the eliminations with a flourish as it guns for its fourth straight win in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup on Friday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

Behind Reinhard Jumamoy and PJ Palacielo, the Bulldogs have been impressive as they hold a 4-1 win-loss card in the premier preseason tourney.

And they have a chance to ride that wave of momentum in the crossover quarterfinals when they end their assignments against Gilas Pilipinas Youth squad at 5 p.m.

For the Nationals, it’s going to be their final chance to test their mettle against the big boys.

Gilas coach Juno Sauler has so far drawn solid performances from the likes of Joaquin Tovera and Bruce Tubongbanua but he also knows that they have to fast-track their maturity with their sights set already at the 2026 FIBA U18 Asia Cup in India.

Mapua University, on the other hand, is also determined to slam the door shut and complete the National Collegiate Athletic Association group quartet for the playoffs in preseason tourney.

The Cardinals (5-1) can seal off the playoff picture with a win against lowly San Sebastian College (0-7) at 1 p.m., especially after riding the wave of momentum from their pair of game-winners.

Mapua coach Chito Victolero is already drawing positive results early behind the likes of MC Cuenco, Cyrus Nitura and Yam Concepcion, but he knows that his side can’t be complacent especially against the Golden Stags.

College of Saint Benilde (3-4) and Arellano University (0-7) are also set to collide in the 3 p.m. matchup.

Allen Liwag wants to help the Blazers bounce back after what has been a topsy-turvy showing in the preseason, while T-Mc Ongotan is determined to finally end the heartbreaks for the Chiefs.