UNIVERSITY of the Philippines and Ateneo seek to arrange a championship rematch as they face different foes on Wednesday in the UAAP Season 85 men's basketball Final Four.
But getting through won't be easy against National University and Adamson at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Things to know:
CARL TAMAYO SITUATION
As impressive as this title retention bid is for UP, it hasn't really been an easy path for the defending champions.
After a 12-day break, coach Goldwin Monteverde is hoping to have Carl Tamayo, who is dealing with ankle issues, in top shape to pair up with presumptive MVP Malick Diouf.
UP collides with NU at 2 p.m.
ON FIRE
Ateneo has been the hottest team so far in the league, winning its last six outings to come away with the top-seed in the playoffs.
A big reason for that has been the stellar play of Ange Kouame and the recent resurgence of Dave Ildefonso.
Ateneo takes on Adamson at 6 p.m.
INSPIRED BALL
Jerom Lastimosa led the way as Adamson reached the Final Four for the first time since 2018.
But they face a tough task, with the Soaring Falcons yet to win against the Blue Eagles, falling 76-55 in the first round last Oct. 19, and in the second round, 66-61, last week.
For the San Marcelino crew to force a do-or-die, it really has to be at its A-game.
FINDING OFFENSE
Defense is the key but offense wins games, too, and it has been the issue for the Bulldogs' this season as they look for a consistent source on offense, from John Lloyd Clemente, Steve Nash Enriquez, or Kean Baclaan.
NU has to figure it out fast if it wants to repeat against UP, much like how it gutted out a 80-75 win in the first round on Oct. 12. They struggled in the nect match bowing, 75-63, on Oct. 31.
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