Five Final 4 hopefuls clash in key face-offs

MANILA, Philippines – University of the Philippines aims to solidify its twice-to-beat hopes against also-ran National U while four Final Four hopefuls gun for each other’s heads in a critical 82nd UAAP men’s basketball tournament face-offs today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Clinging at second spot after another comeback win over Adamson last week, the Maroons (7-4) plunge into key battle against the eliminated Bulldogs (2-9) at 10:30 a.m. to kick off a triple-bill that also features fourth-running FEU (6-6) and No. 6 Adamson (4-7) at 12:30 p.m. then No. 3 UST (7-5) versus No. 5 La Salle (5-6) at 4 p.m.

The Tigers ache to win to stay right behind UP in the fight for No. 2 spot.

As early as last week, unbeaten Ateneo has assured itself of top seeding, with a chance at an outright finals entry should it complete a 14-game sweep in the elims.

For Santo Tomas and FEU, it’s a matter of continuing to take care of business one game at a time to give them a chance of controlling their own destiny.

There will be no different approach today for the Tigers as they seek revenge against first round tormentor the La Salle Archers.

“We don’t want to mind the standings of other squads. Our only focus is our next two games starting against La Salle. We’re getting nearer to the end of the elimination round so we’re hoping to lessen our mistakes down the stretch,” said Ayo.

Tams coach Olsen Racela shares the same view.