MANILA, Philippines — In an exhilarating showdown that had basketball fans on the edge of their seats, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons outclassed the National University (NU) Bulldogs in a decisive victory on November 19, 2023 – Sunday. This critical win at the Mall of Asia Arena not only propels UP to the top of the UAAP standings but also secures them a coveted twice-to-beat advantage in the upcoming playoffs.
The match, which has been the talk of the UAAP season, saw UP’s strategic prowess in full display. From the opening whistle, the Fighting Maroons established a rhythm that the Bulldogs struggled to disrupt. The first half ended with UP leading by a comfortable margin, setting the stage for an intense second half.
UP kept a dominant pace throughout the match, taking 23 points in the first quarter against NU’s 13.
The Fighting Maroons capped off the game with a 22-point lead.
Francis Lopez led the Maroons with 13 points, two rebounds, and one assist.
Malick Diouf and CJ Cansino contributed 11 points apiece. Diouf made eight rebounds and four assists, while Cansino dropped one assist.
Janjan Felicilda complemented UP’s offense with nine points, three rebounds, and an impressive six assists.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, were led by Jake Figueroa who dropped 15 markers, 10 rebounds, and three assists for a sweet double-double.
Jolo Manansala added 10 points, seven rebounds, and one assist to NU’s efforts.
This victory will force a matchup between second seed De La Salle University Green Archers, who also has a twice to beat advantage, and number three NU for finals contention.
Meanwhile, defending champions Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles and the Adamson University Soaring Falcons will have to face off for the fourth seed. The winner of this matchup will have to face UP in the semifinals, with the loser ending their campaign.