By NIKOLE JAVIER
University of the Philippines and Ateneo renew their rivalry while La Salle and Adamson try to press their bids for the fourth and last semis berth in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Maroons and the Eagles have gone into overtime thrice in their last four encounters with the reigning titlists emerging winners in all three occasions.
Ateneo hopes to end its losing run to UP in their 6:30 p.m. showdown as the Eagles intend to boost their own bid for the second twice-to-beat incentive.
Sporting an 11-2 record, the Maroons are already assured of that bonus even if they lose to the Eagles who are carrying a 9-3 mark.
The Adamson Falcons, meanwhile, are determined to enhance their semis bid when they go up against the third-running National University Bulldogs at 11 a.m.
The match is equally important for the Bulldogs since they still have a shot at earning a bonus with their 9-4 mark.
La Salle is also on a mission when it clashes with University of the East at 3 p.m.
Both La Salle and Adamson tote similar 6-6 marks and need to win their last two games for the No. 4 spot.
After three straight escape acts, the Archers have positioned themselves to another possible Final Four appearance.
Penny Estacio is expected to be a marked man after a solid performance against the Bulldogs.