QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Archrivals University of the Philippines (UP) and Ateneo de Manila University clash in the marquee matchup of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday, November 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The historic rivalry takes on heightened stakes as the Fighting Maroons aim to sustain their winning momentum and improve their 8-2 record, while the Blue Eagles look to boost their semifinal aspirations from a 5-5 standing.
UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon emphasized that the current league standings remain tight and unpredictable as the elimination round heads toward the homestretch.
“First, the placing is very deceptive. What I mean by that is anything can change in a heartbeat, basically, right? When the first round ended, I think La Salle and Ateneo were in the sixth and seventh spot,” Luanzon said.
“And Ateneo the same thing, that goes to the rest of the teams, same for UE, one game can change complexion right away as coach Gold always say ‘you cannot take anything for granted’ and regardless ‘yung preparation pa namin is i-surpass pa namin every practice,” he added.
UP will lean on the steady leadership of Noy Remogat, alongside James Payosing, Elliot Dimaculangan, Veejay Pre, Dikachi Ududo, Miguel Yniguez, Jacob Bayla, and Gani Stevens. Meanwhile, a well-rested Ateneo side seeks redemption from a narrow loss to De La Salle, banking on backcourt anchors Kieffer Alas and Jared Bahay, as well as Shawn Tuano, Travis Roberts, EJ Kapihe, Sultan Baruwa, and Ian Espinosa.
In the afternoon fixture at 2:30 p.m., Adamson University (4-6) aims to snap a three-game losing skid and keep its Final Four hopes alive as it faces the winless University of the East (0-10). The Red Warriors will attempt to break a lengthy losing streak under the leadership of Toper Lagat, Lance Sabroso, Olamilekan Ajani, and Cole Cruz-Dumont.
Action at the Smart Araneta Coliseum tips off early with junior division and women’s matches, featuring UPIS against Adamson in the 16U category at 8 a.m., followed by Adamson taking on UE in women’s play at 10 a.m., and Ateneo facing UP in the women’s division at 12 p.m.