Parks flaunts MVP form as NU mauls UP

MANILA, Philippines – Ray Parks reminded everyone why he’s the reigning two-time MVP after leading National University to a 79-62 mauling of University of the Philippines in the 76th UAAP men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday, September 4 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Bulldogs allowed the Fighting Maroons to stay close for the first 23 minutes, but rampaged through their hapless foes in the last part of the game to push their winning streak to 6 and solidify their hold of the top spot with a 9-3 record.

Parks fired 30 points on 12 of 20 shooting while also grabbing 10 rebounds and 5 assists as the MVP came up with his best game of the season yet.

“It will be great if I win the MVP,” the wingman, who has struggled with his shot throughout the tournament, said. “But it would be better to make history if NU wins the title.”

Jean Mbe ably supported Parks with 14 points and 13 boards as the Bulldogs made 18 of 22 free-throw attempts. 

Raul Soyud delivered another double-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks while Sam Marata was the only other UP player in double figures with 13 markers on 5 of 16 shooting. 

The Maroons lost their 11th straight game and remain at the doormat with a 0-11 record. – Rappler.com