UAAP Preview: UE clashes with UP to catch last bus to Final Four

The University of the East (UE) Red Warriors face a critical showdown against the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Basketball Tournament on November 20, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the FilOil Arena.

This game carries immense stakes for UE, as their Final Four hopes hang in the balance.

UE is coming off a heartbreaking 71-67 loss to the Ateneo Blue Eagles, a result that dashed their initial chance to secure a Final Four spot. Ranier Maga led the Red Warriors with 15 points in that game, but their effort fell short.

With a 6-7 record, UE’s path to the semifinals is clear: win against UP and earn the last playoff berth. A victory would set them up for a matchup against the defending champions, the DLSU Green Archers.

Adding to their challenges, UE recently endured a loss to the UST Growling Tigers, 76-67, while playing without Precious Momowei, who served a one-game suspension due to unsportsmanlike fouls.

For UP, this game offers a chance to stay sharp ahead of the playoffs. The Fighting Maroons have already secured a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four with their 10-3 record and are coming off an 86-78 victory over the FEU Tamaraws.

Gerry Abadiano led UP in that game with a scintillating 19-point performance, including six three-pointers.

While this is a non-bearing game for UP, which is set to face the UST Growling Tigers in the semifinals, the team aims to maintain its winning momentum. UP also has the upper hand, having defeated UE in the first round, 81-71.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for UE, as a loss would potentially end their season, while a win keeps their championship dreams alive. On the other hand, UP looks to fine-tune its form and deny the Red Warriors their shot at the playoffs.

The FilOil Arena will be the stage for what promises to be an intense battle on Wednesday night.

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