Quezon city: National University-Nazareth School clobbered University of Santo Tomas, 100-75, to kick off its title defense in the UAAP Under-16 boys' basketball at Far Eastern University-Diliman Gym in Quezon City on Saturday. Andrei Lopez scored 19 points on two triples to lead the way for the Bullpups, while Martin Macoy added 17 points, including five triples.

According to Philippines News Agency, it was 6-foot-2 winger Jesse Arellano who shone brightest, posting a triple-double of 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, to go with seven steals. "When I played against his team in the PSAA (Philippine Schools Athletic Association), I spoke to him right away. I knew he was going to be special," NUNS coach Leo Pujante said, recalling the first time he met Arellano, who was then playing for a club in Antipolo. Miguel Austria finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds for UST. Nicolai Caba±ero, the 12-year-old brother of former Growling Tiger Nic and current Tiger Cub Andwele, had 14 points, five assists, and four steals.

Meanwhile, University of the East whipped University of the Philippines Integrated School, 91-66. "Slightly happy but we still have bad habits that we will try to address. Beyond the wins and losses, what we are looking for here is how they will rise through adversities," UE head coach Paulo Hubalde, who took over Matthew Sia during the offseason, said. Xerone Dizon led the Junior Warriors with 18 points, followed by Odrie Mallabo with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Jaden Roxas added 13 points while Jayson Mercado, the only holdover from last season, had 12 points and eight rebounds. Kean Poquiz paced the Maroons with 27 points.