November 07, 2024

UAAP Preview: FEU hopes to keep Final Four dreams alive against Ateneo

UAAP Preview: FEU hopes to keep Final Four dreams alive against Ateneo
The Ateneo Blue Eagles can play spoiler for the FEU Tamaraws when they meet at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday, November 9 | Photos: RM Chua/One Sports

The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws and Ateneo Blue Eagles are gearing up for a pivotal matchup on November 9, 2024, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with the game tipping off at 3:30 p.m.

Both teams are looking to recover from tough losses in their previous games as they head into the final stretch of the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Basketball Tournament.

The Tamaraws, who currently hold a 4-8 record, narrowly fell to defending champions De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers in a gritty 58-53 game. FEU battled hard, capitalizing on DLSU’s poor shooting and creating turnovers to keep the game close.

Mo Konateh showcased his dominance with 14 points and a staggering 27 rebounds, while rookie Veejay Pre continued to make a significant impact, solidifying his bid for the Rookie of the Year title.

Pre’s impressive season has provided FEU with fresh energy, and his consistent performances have been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the Tamaraws.

While their Final Four hopes hang by a thread, a victory over Ateneo would sustain their playoff aspirations heading into their last game against the UP Fighting Maroons.

Ateneo, with a 3-8 record, is enduring its most difficult season in recent years, coming off a 75-47 loss to UP—the worst defeat in Coach Tab Baldwin’s tenure. Chris Koon led the scoring effort with nine points, but the Blue Eagles struggled across the board, unable to generate offensive rhythm.

The team, once a perennial Final Four contender, is aiming to salvage some pride with a strong performance against FEU.

As FEU’s rising star Veejay Pre looks to continue his Rookie of the Year campaign, and Ateneo fights to redeem itself in a season of adversity, fans can anticipate a fierce contest at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With FEU’s playoff hopes on the line and Ateneo seeking a season-ending boost, this game promises to be an intense battle for both teams and their supporters.

[Editor's note: This article was generated by AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]

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