UNIVERSITY of the Philippines and Ateneo write another chapter in their rivalry as they begin the battle for the UAAP Season 85 men's basketball crown.
Game One of the best-of-three series is set at 6 p.m. on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Things to know:
ROUND THREE
UP and Ateneo break the tie as they face off for the third time in four seasons in the finals.
The Blue Eagles, then led by Thirdy Ravena, swept Bright Akhuetie's Fighting Maroons in UAAP Season 82 in 2018, but a new-look UP side led by Carl Tamayo ended the school's 36-year title drought just seven months ago in a hardfought three-game series against Ateneo in UAAP Season 84.
STABILIZING FORCE
Consistency has been the key for Malick Diouf, the same reason why he's poised to claim the Season MVP honors.
Averaging 10.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.5 steals, the Senegalese big man has been a big driving force in keeping UP's title retention drive alive.
Last season's MVP Ange Kouame who will have to be at his best and match the intensity of his counterpart if Ateneo wants to reclaim its place on top.
CARL'S WORLD
When push comes to shove, Carl Tamayo always comes through for UP.
However, Tamayo's sprained ankle is a cause of concern for the Fighting Maroons as they hope to have him in top form for this best-of-three series.
GUARD PLAY
With much of the frontline cancelling each other, attention shifts to the backcourt on who will step up when the lights are at their brightest.
JD Cagulangan, Terrence Fortea, and Gerry Abadiano are as reliable as they come for UP, while Ateneo also has Dave Ildefonso, Forthsky Padrigao, and BJ Andrade to counter.
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