National University big man PJ Palacielo almost got a double-double against Adamson, but not in the usual way.
In the Bulldogs’ 85-66 rout of the Soaring Falcons in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, Palacielo showcased his passing game.
The burly forward tallied 19 points and eight assists to help NU improve to a 3-2 record.
Palacielo was quick to credit coach Jeff Napa and his staff for pushing him to hone his passing skills.
‘I trust my coaches with whatever they’re asking me to work on,’ he said. ‘I’m able to do these because they’re telling me what my strengths are.’
Palacielo’s court vision helped NU get four other players into double figures. Paul Francisco scored 17 points, while Mo Diassana and Reinhard Jumamoy posted double-doubles. Diassana had 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Jumamoy finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Tebol Garcia also joined the scoring frenzy with 12.
Palacielo knows his assist numbers would not have been as high without his fellow Bulldogs converting his passes.
‘My numbers are like this because we play as a team, the ball doesn’t stay with just one person,’ he said. ‘We don’t play hero ball. Everyone contributes to this team.’