The UE Red Warriors and the Adamson Soaring Falcons have one more chance to make their case for the last Final Four spot in UAAP Season 87.
One spot, two teams.
The UAAP is headed to its last gasp of eliminations as the UE Red Warriors and the Adamson Soaring Falcons make their final push for the last spot in the Final Four with their remaining games against separate foes.
Slated to play the games suspended earlier this season due to inclement weather, the Red Warriors first have the chance for an outright Final Four slot. But Adamson, who caps off the elimination round this weekend, is hoping against hope for one final miracle.
Let’s take a look at the schedule for the UAAP men’s basketball games this week.
November 20, 2024 (Wednesday) - FilOil EcoOil Centre
UP vs UE - 5:30 p.m.
It’s been a long time coming for the UE Red Warriors as they have been waiting to get over the hurdle for their first Final Four appearance since 2009.
Now, they have one last chance to ensure themselves of a place in the semis, with a win in their final game assuring them that last spot in the Final Four.
The only problem is, they face the UP Fighting Maroons. In the midst of a four-game losing streak, the Red Warriors have only won one of their second round games so far. And with the Fighting Maroons eager to end their elimination round on a high, the game will be far from easy.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: UP Fighting Maroons brace for dogfight against Final Four-hungry UE Red Warriors]
But the Red Warriors will have reliable big man Precious Momowei back in action after his one-game suspension. Though their foes will be heavily favored, UE will push to make their case to qualify for the Final Four.
[RELATED: Win to get in: UE Red Warriors have 'easiest' route to clinch last Final Four slot in UAAP Season 87]
November 23, 2024 (Saturday) - FilOil EcoOil Centre
Adamson vs Ateneo - 5:30 p.m.
It’s a little more complicated for the Adamson Soaring Falcons, but the San Marcelino squad can still make it to the Final Four if the Red Warriors lose against UP on Wednesday.
[RELATED: One more chance? Adamson’s intricate scenario to clinch last Final Four spot in UAAP Season 87]
But before they can qualify for a playoff for the fourth spot, the Soaring Falcons will need to hurdle an inspired Ateneo Blue Eagles squad in the curtain closer of UAAP Season 87 eliminations on Saturday.
Adamson, who is coming off of a loss to UST last weekend, will have to dig deep against a Blue Eagles squad determined to send off their seniors on a winning note, should they want to keep their season alive.
Regardless of Wednesday’s result, though, the Soaring Falcons will still be looking for the victory whether for a Final Four playoff, or for a happy end to their campaign.
With both teams fighting for pride and hopefully a playoff spot for Adamson, there’s still going to be fireworks expected in the final game of eliminations.