Manila, Aug. 15 -- 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 Univeristy-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.

But 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 Arellan...