University of the Philippines (UP) and De La Salle clash in a crucial matchup of Final Four hopefuls in Season 81 University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball action on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Fighting Maroons, looming to make the semifinals in 20 years, could secure at least a playoff with a victory over the Green Archers in the game set at 4 p.m.
UP bolstered its Final Four campaign when it showed University of Santo Tomas (UST) the door, 83-69, last Sunday.
With the victory, UP shared fourth spot with Far Eastern University on a 7-7 won-lost record.
Head Coach Bo Perasol wants nothing but a sustained run that could send the state university to the semifinals after two decades of frustration.
“We have to put that win [over UST] behind,” Perasol said. “We cannot [overthink] because there’s a more crucial game coming.”
De La Salle, at 8-5, is looking to solidify its position in the magic four after a 62-71 loss to Ateneo three days ago.
UP is expected to bank on reliables Bright Akhuetie, Paul Desiderio and sophomore guard Juan Gomez de Liaño.
Aljun Melecio, Justin Baltazar and Kiwi center Tanne Samuel will lead the Green Archers side mentored by Louie Gonzales.
Defending champion Ateneo (11-2) battles UST (5-8) at 2 p.m. The Blue Eagles have secured the top seeding and a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals.