La Salle formalizes men's basketball finals rematch

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

11 a.m. - UE vs NU (JHS)

1 p.m. - UST vs FEU (JHS)

3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

It will be De La Salle University versus University of the Philippines in the Finals for the second straight year. 

Defending champion La Salle dominated fourth-seed Adamson University, 70-55, to advance to the best-of-three Finals of the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday night. 

The Fighting Maroons earlier defeated the UST Growling Tigers, 78-69, to book their place in the title series. 

In their Finals bout last season, the Green Archers battled back after losing Game 1 by 30 points, storming back in Games 2 and 3 to take the championship. 

La Salle now owns a four-game winning streak against UP after a 68-56 and 77-66 victories in the elimination round. 

Game 1 of the Finals will be on December 8 at the Big Dome. 

“It’s nice to be back in the finals and I guess we also have to acknowledge Adamson losing Fransman and Calisay who are vital parts of the team. They still gave a good fight and that just shows how good that team is. These guys did what they’re supposed to do so it’s nice to be back in the finals,” said La Salle head coach Topex Robinson. 

“What’s obvious during those first two meetings was UP did not have a complete lineup. That’s one thing we haven’t seen and going back to our preseason meetings, they beat us twice so that’s one thing we have to remember,” added the champion coach, emphasizing that there’s no room for error against the Maroons. 

Leading by just four early in the second quarter, 20-16, the Green Archers turned on the jets with seldom-used guard Matt Rubico providing the spark as they finished the period on a 16-1 rally to build a 36-17 advantage at the half. 

In that run, Rubico, who only had three points total in the elimination round, recorded six points while Joshua David, Doy Dungo, Kevin Quiambao, and Alex Konov also chipped in. 

Royce Mantua, Eli Ramos, and Cedrick Manzano put up 11 unanswered points to pull the Soaring Falcons within 50-63 with 3:53 left in the game but it was too late as Quiambao and Mike Phillips answered for the Green Archers. 

Quiambao still topped the scoring for La Salle with 14 points to go with three rebounds, three steals, two blocks, and two assists, while Phillips stuffed the stat sheet with eight points, eight rebounds. five steals, four assists, and two blocks.

Graduating guard Joshua David added 11 points on a perfect 3-of-3 clip from deep. 

Mantua paced Adamson with 14 points, while Manzano chimed in 13 points and nine rebounds. 

Mathew Montebon barely made a difference in the match after being held scoreless in 28 minutes of action. He missed all of his five shot attempts. 

The Soaring Falcons missed the services of scorers Jhon Calisay and AJ Fransman, both under the weather. 

Joshua Yerro, Mario Barasi, Eli Ramos, and Calisay have exhausted their playing years for Adamson. 

The Scores:

DLSU 70 – Quiambao 14, David 11, Phillips 8, Ramiro 7, Marasigan 6, Dungo 5, Gonzales 5, Agunanne 4, Dungo 4, Konov 4, Austria 2, Macalalag 0, Gollena 0, Alian 0. 

AdU 55 – Mantua 14, Manzano 13, Anabo 6, Yerro 6, Erolon 5, Ramos 3, Dignadice 3, Ojarikre 2, Barasi 2, Montebon 1, Alexander 0, Barcelona 0, Ignacio 0, Ronzone 0. 

Quarterscores: 18-11, 36-17, 59-34, 70-55.

FEU nips La Salle in women's football final preview

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament Standings  

*FEU 19pts (+14 GD) 

*DLSU 14pts (+7)

UST 8 pts (-1) 

UP 5pts (-10)

Ateneo 4pts (-10)  

*Final

Men's Matches on Sunday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. - AdU vs UE

4:30 p.m. – DLSU vs UP

6:30 p.m. - UST vs Ateneo

DEFENDING champion Far Eastern University edged De La Salle University 1-0 in a tense preview of the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament final, held on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Field.

The decisive moment came in the 57th minute when a miscue from Chenny Dañoso led to an own goal, handing the Lady Tamaraws the lead. 

With the win, FEU extended its lead atop the standings to 19 points, five points ahead of the Lady Booters, with a +14 goal difference.

“This game was not a good game,” admitted FEU head coach Let Dimzon. “I think na-pre-pressure sila kasi they are thinking about playing against La Salle for the finals. Ayun ‘yung nagiging problem namin—they cannot handle the pressure. Then also, hindi ko nakita ‘yung play namin, ‘yung system namin. 

"A little frustration on my part, but I told them they have to enjoy the game as it’s just a non-bearing game," she admitted as she immediately huddled up the troops after the game.

FEU showed early intent when Marinelle Cristobal attempted a free kick in the 23rd minute, only for La Salle goalkeeper Jessica Pido to clear the ball swiftly. 

Meanwhile, La Salle had its moments, with defender Maye Mendaño taking a free kick in the first half that sailed over the goal. 

She came close again in the 81st minute, forcing a crucial save from Lady Tamaraws goalkeeper Jessa Lehayan.

Both teams will wrap up their second-round eliminations on December 7. 

FEU is set to face Ateneo de Manila University at 4 p.m., while La Salle will look to bounce back against the University of the Philippines at 6:30 p.m.

NUNS, Adamson set up Girls Volleyball rematch

c/o UAAP

Adamson University and National University Nazareth School arranged a third straight UAAP Season 87 High School Girls’ Volleyball Finals showdown following escapes of respective foes on Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

Defending champions Baby Falcons needed to dig deep from a 0-2 hole to pull off a reverse sweep against the fourth-ranked University of Santo Tomas Junior Golden Tigresses, 20-25, 18-25, 25-23, 25-18, 15-9, in a match that ended after exactly two hours.

Meanwhile, the Lady Bullpups, the top seeds who are gunning for redemption, turned a 1-2 deficit into a five-set thriller, to book the Finals ticket at the expense of the Far Eastern University-Diliman Lady Baby Tamaraws, 25-18, 21-25, 21-25, 25-16, 18-16, also in two hours of battle.

The battle for this season’s crown starts on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena, the time of which will be announced by Sunday.

Adamson and NUNS will meet in the Finals for a third straight season with the Lady Bullpups winning in a classic three-game series in Season 85 before the Baby Falcons rules Season 86 via a tournament sweep.

Adamson was swept by  NUNS in the eliminations.

The Lady Bullpups took the first meeting, 16-25, 25-23, 25-20, 23-25, 15-13, on October 2 before bagging the second, 25-21, 25-17, 21-25, 25-17 on October 27.

“In the first place talagang kailangan namin ma-correct ‘yung mga lapses namin. Kailangan mentally rin prepared. Ito ‘yung madudugong sitwasyon na papasok na kami ng Finals.” said the Baby Falcons’ head coach JP Yude.

“But I know, I always trust in the Lord na, I always pray na He will give us the right mindset. A strong mind and a strong heart always kasi, sabi ko nga sa mga bata, huwag kayong maglaro for ourselves, maglaro kayo para sa Panginoon. Kaya hindi pwedeng half-hearted, dapat whole-hearted para ma-glorify niyo Siya,” the former Soaring Falcon added.

Using a strong fightback in the third set, Abi Segui and Sam Cantada, holdovers from last year’s champion team that swept the season, took over the fifth and deciding set, turning a 4-all deadlock into a 12-6 advantage. Segui fired back-to-back service aces before Cantada finished a combination play from the middle.

That initiative from their leaders rubbed off the rest of the team, fuelling an exchange of points. Lhouriz Tuddao eventually sent the Baby Falcons into match point after two aces before Ellaine Gonzalvo detonated with her 21st point of the contest to end the nip-and-tuck battle.

“In-encourage lang po talaga namin sila na, na ‘pag may isang lumalaban, dalawa, o tatlo, kailangang sumama na lahat kasi team effort po talaga ‘to. Collective effort talaga dapat ‘yung gagawin namin. Kailangan po sumama po sila sa ‘min ‘pag lumalaban kami,” said Segui, who also finished with 21 markers, six coming from the service line, to go with 12 digs.

Gonzalvo contributed a match-high 21 points, including two attacks that gave Adamson a comfortable cushion in the fifth, and 10 digs, while Cantada pinched in 15 points and 11 excellent receptions.

Sofia Arasan, who took over Fei Sagaysay’s playmaking duties, tossed 14 excellent sets.

Jhellane Auxtero paced UST with 14 points and 11 digs, while Avril Bron added 11 markers, five coming from blocks. Kim Rubin also finished with 14 points and four excellent receptions.

Meanwhile, in the fifth and final set, the NUNS leaders pulled through in their battle with FEU-D captain Raine Alonzo.

Harlyn Serneche and Deneese Daylisan connived in the decider against Alonzo, who single-handedly lifted the Baby Tamaraws to a 16-all deadlock.

A crucial service error from the FEU-D skipper, though, handed the NUNS Lady Bullpups the match-point before Diza Berayo smartly sent the ball to the open spot at the back of the opponent’s court.

“Expected naman namin na hindi magiging madali ang Final Four kasi lahat ng apat na teams na pumasok is malalakas. I’m happy na ‘yung mga players hindi bumitaw kahit down na kami. Nahirapan man, pero naitawid,” said NUNS head coach Karl Dimaculangan.

Serneche and Berayo both finished with 19 points with the latter adding 12 digs to her production, while Daylisan amassed 11 points.

Alonzo exploded for 26 markers on 23 attacks, as Aleah Devosora had 12 points and six digs and Sheila Pascual ended with nine markers and six excellent receptions.

The Junior Golden Tigresses finished with the bronze, while the Lady Baby Tamaraws settled for fourth.

UP dispatches UST, makes fourth straight finals trip

c/o UAAP

Second seed University of the Philippines showcased steadiness under pressure, fending off third-ranked University of Santo Tomas, 78-69, to advance to its fourth-straight UAAP Collegiate Men’s Basketball Finals on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons will face the winner between the top-ranked De La Salle Green Archers and the fourth-seeded Adamson Soaring Falcons in the Season 87 best-of-three championship series.

This time, UP, which reached the Finals for the fifth time in the last six seasons, looks to turn its fortunes around after settling for silver the past two seasons, losing to Ateneo de Manila University in Season 85 and La Salle in Season 86.

“Sa amin naman, from yung nangyari sa last season. We took that to heart sa first practice pa lang. We as a team, ‘yung goal namin is to take it one game at a time. Ngayon, nandito na kami. Yan ang maganda sa finals, mag-start kami ng 0-0. It’s a best-of-three series. We’re looking forward to preparing and playing our best,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde.

The Fighting Maroons shifted the momentum to their side in the third quarter with a huge 21-4 blast through the efforts of Harold Alarcon and Reyland Torres, turning a 34-40 deficit into a 55-44 lead with 2:24 left in the third frame.

Although the Growling Tigers were able to chop their deficit to within 58-62 with 6:55 remaining in the match, UP was just too much.

Alarcon, Quentin Millora-Brown, and Francis Lopez responded to reestablish an 11-point advantage with 3:03 to go, 72-61.

This win was similar to UP’s two victories (81-70 and 83-73) against UST in the elimination round where the Tigers stuck in the game most times only to falter late in the second half.

“Nung first half, I felt na medyo we played tense nang konti. Minsan ganon, sa sobrang gusto natin na manalo, medyo nagmamadali. Sa second half, they trusted each other more. Mas naintindihan namin na we should play together, which is nangyari naman nung third quarter,” added Monteverde.

“Nagsisimula pa rin sa ensayo namin. May one week preparation kami (para sa Finals) so doon namin sisimulan bawat practice,” said Torres, who made 13 points on 4-of-5 shooting from the field and seven rebounds.

In the elimination round, Torres only averaged 4.2 points.

Alarcon, meanwhile, waxed hot anew with 16 points, 14 of which he tallied in the second half, reminiscent of how he went on fire in their last game against University of the East where he shot 16 of his 33 points in the fourth frame.

Lopez also notched 16 points while Millora-Brown was a huge presence in the paint, grabbing 19 rebounds and four blocks to go with his nine points and three assists.

Kyle Paranada, Nic Cabañero, and Gelo Crisostomo paced the Growling Tigers with 12 points apiece.

Cabañero, however, struggled from the field, shooting just 4-of-13.

UST lead guard Forthsky Padrigao, who finished with seven points and three assists, was ejected with 3:24 left in the fourth period after incurring his second unsportmanlike foul for an elbow to Millora-Brown’s stomach while trying to fight through a screen. He got his first unsportsmanlike foul at the 9:33 mark of the third after pulling ‘QMB’s jersey trying to stop a fastbreak attempt.

Migs Pangilinan, Christian Manaytay, and Chase Lane have played their final game for the Growling Tigers.

The Scores

UP 78 - Lopez 16, Alarcon 16, Torres 13, Millora-Brown 9, Fortea 8, Cagulangan 6, Ududo 4, Felicilda 2, Stevens 2, Belmonte 2, Bayla 0, Abadiano 0.

UST 69 - Paranada 12, Cabañero 12, Crisostomo 12, Manaytay 10, Tounkara 8, Padrigao 7, Acido 3, Pangilinan 3, Llemit 2, Estacio 0, Danting 0, Laure 0.

Quarterscores: 16-14, 33-35, 57-50, 78-69.

UST at cusp of podium finish in women's football

c/o UAAP

Men's Football Matches on Sunday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. - AdU vs UE

4:30 p.m. – DLSU vs UP

6:30 p.m. - UST vs Ateneo

CHRISTY Logastua's brace helped University of Santo Tomas close their UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women's Football Tournament campaign on a high note, securing a 2-0 victory over University of the Philippines on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Field.

Logastua opened the scoring in the third minute, marking her first goal of the season and setting the tone for UST’s dominant performance.

Just after the restart, the 22-year-old striker sealed the win for UST in the 47th minute, securing the Lady Booters’ third-place finish.

“Deserve ng girls yan. Mentally and emotionally gusto talaga nila kunin kahit third place lang. I know we’re struggling sa first round but hindi sila affected masyado, hindi sila nagkaroon ng low morale. Parang every game is a challenge and we keep on telling the girls na kaya niyo yan, kailangang maniwala sa sarili niyo,” said UST head coach Marjo Allado.

After a draw with UP in the first round, UST finished the tournament with 8 points and a goal difference of minus-1, securing third place.

UP struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with Jansen Miranda coming closest to an equalizer in the 31st minute.

However, her attempt was just inches away from the post and went off target.

The result left UP in fourth place with 5 points and a goal difference of minus-10.

UP will look to end their campaign on a positive note when they face De La Salle on December 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Fan favorites Gonzalez-Carro, Bello twins sustain fine play

c/o PNVF

FAN favorite Sofía González and María Belén Carro of Spain survived a nailbiter against Piper Ferch and Madison Shields of the US, 21-18, 14-21, 20-18 on Saturday in the Round of 12 in the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Nuvali in the City of Santa Rosa.

The world No. 66 and coming off victory in the Copa de La Reina Madrid, the Spaniards came out on top from an evenly-matched battle at the Nuvali Sand Courts where Gonzalez notched 24 attack points and Carro had 11 against Shields’ 24 and Ferchs’ 11.

Gonzalez and Carro set up a showdown with world No. 84 Malgorzata Ciezkowska and Urszula Lunio of Poland, who beat Hailey Harward and Kylie DeBerg of the US, 21-14, 21-15.

The top-rated men’s pair of Javier and Joaquin Bello also sustained their fine run and continued to thrill the fans as the English twins disposed of Dutch rising stars Leon Luini and Ruben Penninga, 21-18, 21-19, in the tournament organized by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation under Ramon “Tats” Suzara, who is also president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation and Executive Vice President of the world governing body Federation  Internationale de Volleyball. 

Javier had 18 of their 26 attack points, while Joaquin scored four of the pair’s five blocks.

“Whenever you’re the No. 1 seed in any international tournament and to have a target on your back is sometimes difficult but for us we think of the same way every tournament,” Joaquin said.

“Regardless of what seed we are or what the expectation is if we go game by game, point by point, stay together united and just fight point by point, that’s what we do,” he added.

Germany’s Sagstetter brothers Jonas and Benedikt, who eliminated the Alas Pilipinas pair of James Buytrago and Rancel Varga, cruised past No. 44 Vinicius and Heitor of Brazil, 21-13, 21-18.

Ferch and Shields earlier held off Aleksandra Wachowicz and Julia Radelczuk, 21-16, 17-21, 15-13.

Adamson outlasts Ateneo in stepladder playoff

c/o UAAP

Cheska Apag saved Adamson University from the jaws of defeat, nailing a clutch deuce to send the game into overtime before the rest of the Lady Falcons stepped up to eliminate the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 59-53, and advance to the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women's Basketball Stepladder Semifinals on Saturday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Falcons were 5.5 seconds left away from elimination when Apag grabbed the offensive rebound after Kim Limbago airballed a triple and drained a baseline jumper, forcing the game into extra time.

Adamson caught fire at the perfect moment in overtime, with Elaine Etang hitting a crucial three-pointer and Nigerian center Victoria Adeshina adding two inside baskets to give Adamson a 56-51 lead with 3:20 left.

Novie Ornopia was in the right place at the right time, tipping the ball out after a missed triple from Limbago, which led to a free throw by Apag, extending the Lady Falcons’ lead to 57-53 with just 7.9 seconds remaining.

Etang then sealed Adamson’s historic victory with two free throws, pushing the lead to 59-53 with 3.9 seconds left.

“It’s not about me ‘eh, it’s about them. The hard work they put in day in and day out. Sabi ko before the game, God will always provide for those people who work for Him. Even if we’re the third in the seeding, I think these players deserve this win. They just proved that that shot was no luck, it was made in the Adamson court every day, every morning,” Lady Falcons head coach Ryan Monteclaro said.

In regulation, third-year guard Junize Calago scored four straight points, including a top-of-the-key three-pointer and a free throw, to give Ateneo a slim 49-47 lead with under 40 seconds remaining.

Ateneo had one final chance to win at the buzzer, but Dela Rosa missed a potential game-winning fadeaway three.

With the victory, Adamson now prepares for a do-or-die showdown against the reigning champions University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses for the last spot in the finals.

National University jumped straight to the Finals after completing a 14-game sweep of eliminations.

The Lady Falcons are gunning for their first Finals appearance since 2011 when they lost to Far Eastern University in three games.

The win also marked Adamson’s first podium finish since Season 79 in 2016 under current Baby Falcons 19-and-under head coach Mike Fermin. Headlining that Adamson team were Kaye Pingol and Mar Prado.

“It’s all about the heart na talagang gusto namin manalo kahit na mahirap, pero still, we know that we can do it. Buo kami na kaya namin manalo even though despite na lamang sila sa amin, sa amin walang superstar, but still buo kami na willing manalo sa game na ito,” Apag said.

The trio of Apag, Etang, Limbago - who are some of the smallest guards in the entire league - combined for 28 of Adamson’s 57 rebounds.

Despite losing the overall rebounding battle to the Blue Eagles’ 67 boards, it was in the offensive rebounding department where the Lady Falcons shined. They grabbed 26 offensive boards, 10 more than Ateneo’s 16.

Ateneo’s game was marred by 34 turnovers compared to Adamson’s 12 miscues. As a result, the Lady Falcons took advantage, scoring 26 points off the Blue Eagles’ errors.

Etang also led the Lady Falcons with 22 points, eight rebounds, and three steals, while Adeshina tallied 16 points, seven rebounds, and one block.

Apag ended the day with 10 points, 10 rebounds, two steals, and one assist, while Limbago was limited to three points but grabbed nine rebounds and four steals.

Ateneo, on the other hand, finished in fourth place for the second straight season.

Dela Rosa paced the Blue Eagles with a near 20-20 outing, scoring 19 points and grabbing 24 rebounds to go along with five blocks and one steal, while Nigerian center Sarah Makanjoula contributed 10 points, 23 rebounds, and one block.

Calago scored 14 points on 3-of-15 shooting and nine turnovers but still contributed six rebounds, three steals, and two assists.

Ateneo will retain its Season 87 core, bannered by Dela Rosa, Kai Oani, and Makanjoula, heading into its next UAAP campaign.

The Scores:

AdU (59) - Etang 22, Adeshina 16, Apag 10, Limbago 3, Alaba 3, Meniano 2, Agojo 2, Padilla 1, Mazo 0, Ornopia 0, Bajo 0, Manlimos 0, Trabado 0, Alaba 0.

Ateneo (53) - Dela Rosa 19, Calago 14, Makanjoula 10, Oani 5, Villacruz 2, Aquirre 2, Batongbakal 1, Angala 0, Cancio 0, Eufemiano 0.

Quarterscores: 13-14, 23-25, 40-34, 49-49, 59-53.

UST, NUNS set up Boys Volleyball Finals matchup

c/o UAAP

TOP-SEEDED University of Santo Tomas and National University Nazareth School will face off in the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys' Volleyball Finals after contrasting wins in the Final Four on Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

The Junior Golden Spikers, the number one seed, overcame a challenge from the Adamson Baby Falcons in the third set to complete a 25-15, 25-19, 25-23 sweep in just one hour and eight minutes.

Meanwhile, defending champions Bullpups edged out Season 86 Finals rivals University of the East Junior Warriors in a thrilling two-hour marathon, 19-25, 27-29, 25-23, 25-22, 20-18, securing a chance to defend their title.

Game 1 of the Finals is set for Wednesday, December 4, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena, with the first serve time to be announced on Sunday.

In their elimination-round encounters, the Bullpups lost both matches to the Junior Golden Spikers.

For UST head coach Aying Esteban, the team's growth this season compared to last year is a positive sign for the future.

"Yung mga players ko rin talaga ‘yung nag-improve. ‘Yung sistema na pinasok namin is na-adapt lang nila nang na-adapt; kaya ‘yung mga players talaga nagtrabaho this season,” Esteban said.

“Malaking bagay talaga na meron ka nang legit na setter na makakapag-perform nang maayos. Tsaka ‘yung pag-adjust namin sa spiking namin, talaga pinilit namin ‘yung sistema na ‘yun,” he added.

On the other hand, the Bullpups' quest for back-to-back titles was marred by challenges.

“From the very first game talagang nag-wo-worry na ko kasi sa health ng mga bata. Marami kaming players na injured, tapos may mga players kami na hindi na nagtuloy. Kulang talaga kami sa tao. Very lucky kami na nakuha namin ‘tong laro na ‘to, at umabot sa Finals,” said NUNS head coach Edgar Barroga.

Reigning MVP Jancriz Ayco played a key role in UST's victory, turning a 21-all deadlock into a third-set win.

He executed a booming spike to give his team match point, then fired a well-delivered serve that Adamson could not return.

Ayco finished with 12 points, while three other Junior Golden Spikers reached double digits: Sean Cruz (13 points), John Paul Bautista (12), and Paolo Medino (10 points).

Medino also contributed four digs and 11 excellent receptions, while setter Jeff Abalos provided 13 excellent sets.

Adamson's Jims Ducusin led the Baby Falcons with a match-high 16 points, while last season’s Rookie of the Year Jhon Guevarra added five digs and seven excellent receptions.

In the other semifinal, team captain Migs Egger and Matthew Abut helped NUNS overcome UE in a five-set thriller. Egger’s three consecutive blocks at 13-11 put the Bullpups in the lead, while Abut’s clutch kills sent NUNS to match point at 19-18.

Egger, the Season 86 Best Middle Blocker, closed out the game with a final rejection of UE's center attacker, Buen Limpin.

"Naghanap talaga ko ng paraan para ma-uplift sila, kasi nung first and second set sobrang down po sila. Hindi po sila maka-diskarte nang maayos, hindi sila maka-galaw nang maayos. Kaya ginawan ko po talaga ng paraan para buo po kaming lumaban," said Egger, who finished with 22 points, including 15 attacks, six blocks, and one service ace.

Abut chipped in 16 markers, including two key service aces in the second set, and finishing kills in the fifth set.

Yuan Mendoza led the Bullpups with 19 points, all coming from attacks. Jake Briones anchored the defense with 23 digs and 28 excellent receptions.

UE's Christian Antonio delivered a game-high 29 points, 26 of them from attacks, while Gian Flestado added 18 points.

Lance Babon also contributed 19 points along with seven digs and 22 excellent receptions.

The Junior Warriors settled for the bronze medal, while the Baby Falcons finished fourth.

FEU-Diliman ends JHS eliminations with a strong finish

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament Standings

*UE 13-1

*FEU-D 12-2

*UST 10-4

*NUNS 7-7

DLSZ 6-8

Ateneo 5-9

AdU 3-11

UPIS 0-14

*Final Four

FAR Eastern University-Diliman will enter the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Boys' Basketball Final Four armed with a six-game winning streak after dismantling Zane Kallos-less Ateneo de Manila University, 69-55, at the close of the elimination round on Saturday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Baby Tamaraws, the second-seeded team holding the twice-to-beat advantage, will take on the third-ranked University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs in the Final Four on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

In the other pairing, top-seeded University of the East Junior Warriors face inaugural champions National University Nazareth School Bullpups.

The tip-off time of the games have yet to be determined as of this time.

It was a perfect warmup for the Baby Tamaraws, according to head coach Muriel Garcia.

“Kung ano yung sakit na naramdaman namin sa second round, binabaon namin ‘yon at ginagawa naming experience ‘yon. Sinasabi ko na hindi ka naman mabubuhay sa dumaan na, pero sabi ko sa kanila, kung ano yung galit at inis natin, palitan natin ng trabaho at panalo sa Final Four,” said the outspoken head coach.

Consecutive three-pointers from Anton Lopez, Duke Santos, Denden Enriquez, and CP Miranda allowed the Baby Tamaraws to convert a slim 39-33 lead to a comfortable 53-41 lead heading into the payoff period.

Powered by the likes of Prince Carino, Kierdy Victoria, Lopez, and Miranda, FEU-D sealed its sixth straight victory with an 11-0 run, sending Ateneo down a game-high 68-49 hole with 4:06 remaining.

Lopez led the Baby Tamaraws with 16 points, two steals, one rebound, and one assist, while Victoria ended the day with nine points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals on a game-high plus-21 efficiency in 15 minutes and 56 seconds of play.

Santos chipped in eight points, four assists, and one rebound, while Mark Dulin nearly tallied a double-double with seven points and 14 rebounds to go along with two steals and one block.

Kallos, the MVP frontrunner after the first round, missed Ateneo’s final game of the season due to a left knee injury.

In the final game of the elimination round, De La Salle-Zobel ended its campaign on a high note, trumping Adamson University, 73-59.

With this, the Junior Archers finished fifth with a 6-8 record followed by the Blue Eagles at 5-9.

The Baby Falcons (3-11) and the UPIS Fighting Maroons (0-14) are at the bottom of the standings.

Vince Magan scored a game-high 26 points to go along with 10 rebounds, five steals, and three assists, while Melvin Tailan tallied 23 points, six rebounds, six assists, and three steals for DLSZ.

In addition, Jayden Centeno chipped in seven points, two rebounds, two steals, and one assist, while Duncan Tan contributed five points and six rebounds.

“Yung positives naman ay we were still there in the battle for the Final Four. Every year naman, lagi kami nagpprepare at naghahanda para sa mission namin na makapasok na Final Four. Kinapos na naman ngayon, pero next year pangako na mas paghahandaan namin,” Junior Archers head coach Penny Laureaga said.

In Kallos’ absence, Domeng Ngo stepped up with 12 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while Q Molina chipped in 10 points, five assists, and two rebounds.

Sky Jazul also scored 10 points to go along with three rebounds and two steals, while JD Juangco contributed an all-around statline with seven points, four rebounds, and four assists.

Edison Jordan paced the Baby Falcons with 20 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks, while Aurelio Fransman contributed 12 points, four assists, three rebounds, and two steals.

Craig Fongtong chipped in 10 points, five rebounds, three assists, and one assist, while Prince Banate nearly tallied a double-double with nine points, eight rebounds, one steal, and one block.

The Scores:

First Game:

FEU-D (69) - Lopez 16, Victoria 9, Santos 8, Carino 8, Dulin 7, Miranda 7, Enriquez 6, Pasinos 6, Lassiter 2, Pineda 0, Pingris 0, Diaz 0, Daa 0, Adriano 0, Chavez 0.

Ateneo (55) - Ngo 12, Molina 10, Jazul 10, Juangco 7, Lacsamana 5, Fernandez 4, Bernarte 3, Pineda 3, Ylen 1, Meresen 0, Dela Rosa 0, Ramos 0, Valte 0, Divinagracia 0, Hwang 0.

Quarterscores: 21-16, 34-25, 53-41, 69-55.

Second Game:

DLSZ (73) - Magan 26, Tailan 23, Centeno 7, Apao 5, Tan 5, Fuentes 3, Llamas 2, Villaruz 2, Rivera 0, Maglipon 0, E. Purugganan 0, I. Puruggunan 0, Mindanao 0.

AdU (59) - E. Jordan 20, Fransman 12, Fongtong 10, Banate 9, A. Jordan 5, Tiamzon 3, Azurias 0, Ondevilla 0, Tuazon 0, Alcantara 0, Ang 0.

Quarterscores: 16-12, 35-33, 51-46, 73-59.

Mapua, CSB set for historic NCAA basketball finals

For the first time in the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) history, sports enthusiasts will witness the finale face-off between Mapúa University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in the NCAA Season 100 Men’s Basketball Finals. Catch the action live on GMA Network this Sunday, December 1, at 2 p.m., broadcasting straight from the historic Araneta Coliseum. 

The game will be simulcast on GMA and Heart of Asia (HOA) and will have a livestream on the social media pages of GMA Sports and NCAA. 

The top-seeded Mapúa Cardinals have booked their return trip to the finals this centennial season after ousting the LPU Pirates, 89-79. With a winning mindset, Coach Randy Alcantara’s team is more than ready to claim the championship crown, thanks to the consistent efforts of Season 99 Rookie / MVP Clint Escamis, and ace players Chris Hubilla, and Lawrence Mangubat. Mapua is aiming to break a 33-year title drought. 

The Benilde Blazers, meanwhile, cruised to a lopsided 79-63 victory in the semis against the San Beda Red Lions. This marks the first time since Season 80 that San Beda was denied a spot in the finals round. Headed by Coach Charles Tiu, the Taft-based squad is all geared up to go all out, with top players Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot, and Jhomel Ancheta taking the lead. The Blazers last won a Men's Basketball Championship 24 years ago (Season 76) 

“This centennial season of the NCAA is indeed a historic and remarkable one as this is the first time in the history of the league that we will be seeing the face-off between the Benilde Blazers and the Mapúa Cardinals in the finals round. We invite everyone to watch the exciting finals game to give their support to the top 2 teams this season,” shares NCAA Season 100 Management Committee Chairman Hercules Callanta.

“The historic, action-packed battle between the Mapúa Cardinals and the Benilde Blazers for the finals of the NCAA Season 100 is a must-see for all NCAA fans and sports enthusiasts. This centennial season of the Philippines’ first collegiate league is all about inspiring legacies — and through GMA Network, we are about to witness highly skilled and passionate individuals who will be part of the NCAA legacy. To the competing teams, thank you for showcasing the true essence of being a member of the NCAA, and congratulations in advance,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso. 

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Finals will be anchored by Synergy Sports host Martin Javier. Joining him is veteran professional basketball player Beau Belga. 

Don’t miss the action on the NCAA Season 100 Men’s Basketball Finals – Game 1 on December 1, 2 p.m airing live on GMA and HOA; Game 2 on December 7, 2:30 p.m and Game 3 on December 14, 2:30 p.m. (if necessary) airing live on GTV and HOA. 

Catch the livestream on the NCAA Philippines website (www.gmanetwork.com/ncaa), NCAA Philippines Facebook page and YouTube channel, and GMA Sports' social media accounts. Global Pinoys can catch all the action via the international channel GMA News TV. 

Bello twins impress as Alas Pilipinas suffer tough losses at Nuvali

c/o PNVF

RAN ABDILLA and Lerry Francisco put on a show to the delight of the fans at the Nuvali Sand Courts. 

Still, top-rated English pair Joaquin and Javier Bello proved too strong and scored a 21-9, 21-16 victory at the start of action in the main draw of the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Nuvali on Thursday in the City of Santa Rosa.

Coming off a huge victory in the BPT Elite 16 in Rio de Janeiro and instant fan favorites in Nuvali, the world No. 17 Bello twins played predictably dominant, almost certain to score when left with enough opening above the net.

But Alas Pilipinas did not simply roll over, Francisco tooling the block to earn crucial points and Abdilla setting up scoring chances with his powerful serves to get the crowd going.

The Philippines led 7-6 in the second set and although the Bellos quickly regained control, Abdilla and Francisco stayed within striking distance and fought until the final rally.

“It was a good experience and it was good that we were able to keep up with them,” said Abdilla. “But they’re the top team and it showed, they don’t seem to feel pressure. They play so relaxed.”

England punctuated the first-set win with an ace in the 14th minute and wrapped up the match in 33 minutes with a kill block. 

“The Filipinos really pushed us and we had to try out best to win,” Joaquin said. “This win is important. We try to play every point like it was the final.”

Gen Eslapor and Kly Orillaneda also had a difficult opening match, losing to world No. 50 Ieva Dumbauskaite Ieva Vasiliauskaite of Lithuania, 21-12, 21-8, in the tournament hosted by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

The tough run continued for the hosts as James Buytrago and Rancel Varga, silver medalists in the BPT Futures Nuvali in April, lost 8-21, 29-31 to Mart Tiisaar and Dimitriy Korotkov of Estonia. 

Abdilla and Francisco tries to bounce back when they battle Austria’s Christoph Dressler and Tim Berger, who lost, 15-21, 22-20, 8-15 in an an all-Austrian match against Alexander Horst and Paul Pascariuc.

Next up for Eslapor and Orillaneda are Niina Ahtiainen and Taru Lahti of Finland, who bowed to Daniele Kvedaraite and Jekaterina Kovalskaja of Lithuania, 19-21, 17-21. 

Bation III brace salvages point for UP

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament Standings

*Ateneo 25pts (+20GD)  

*FEU 24pts (+21) 

*UP 23pts (+15) 

*UST 14 pts (-5) 

DLSU 10pts (-11) 

UE 9pts (-15) 

ADU 6pts (-25)

*Final Four

Women's Matches on Saturday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. -  UP vs UST

6:30 p.m. - DLSU vs FEU

DEFENDING champion University of the Philippines stormed back from two goals down to battle with Far Eastern University to a 2-2 stalemate to split points Thursday night in the UAAP Season 87 men's football tournament at the UP Football Stadium.

Ramil Bation III netted a second-half brace to hike his goal total to seven as the Fighting Maroons earned a point to keep their hopes alive of finishing as the No. 1 team in the eliminations.

Third-running UP is now with 23 points, two off league-leading Ateneo. 

The Tamaraws failed to wrest the lead, as they remained in second spot with 24 points, one behind the Blue Eagles, as coach Roman Oliver's side has already done with the elims.

"Of course, one of the messages is how we can emulate or excel coming from the UST game. The message was to keep that hunger and help each other on the field. If one makes a mistake, the other is there to cover for it. And of course, the effort—clearly, it showed throughout the ninety minutes plus stoppage time. The effort was there, everyone was there to cover and help one another. It showed in how we were able to equalize against FEU," said UP head coach Popoy Clarino.

That made the final elimination round matchday on Sunday more exciting to determine the Final Four pairings. UP will face also-ran De La Salle, while Ateneo takes on University of Santo Tomas.

Karl Absalon opened the scoring with a 18th minute penalty before FEU doubled the lead courtesy of Selwyn Mamon in the 80th minute.

The Fighting Maroons pulled one back after Bation struck in the 86th minute before producing a stoppage-time equalizer that broke the backs of the Tamaraws.

“We’ve always trusted our players. Whoever we put in, we place our full trust in them. We know they can do the job, and they showed it. We’re happy with their performance, and hopefully, we can carry this experience into the following games," Clarino said.

Adamson stuns La Salle, ends their postseason aspirations

c/o UAAP

Women's Football Matches on Saturday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. -  UP vs UST

6:30 p.m. - DLSU vs FEU

ADAMSON University shut the door of De La Salle with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory, giving University of Santo Tomas the remaining Final Four berth on Thursday night in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Football Tournament at the UP Football Stadium.

The substitutes delivered for the Falcons, who played with a lot of pride, as Christian Hayahay struck in the 73rd-minute equalizer while Keivenn Banagodos produced the stoppage time winner, with both goals coming off corners.

Alonso Aguilar scored in the 25th minute for the Green Booters, who entered the match needing to sweep their last two matches to advance.

It was only the Falcons' second win of the season.

“Pretty intense game coming back from one down. Good fighting spirit from both teams La Salle really wants it as well. We just happen to get the goals, it's crazy. It’s always by players, their effort of not giving up," said coach Darlton Digha, who is a former Adamson standout.

The Green Booters remained at 10 points in fifth spot, behind the Golden Booters' 14.

The Falcons, who now have six points, are determined to end the season on a winning note. Adamson, which revived its men's football program in 2014, will wrap up its campaign against University of the East on Sunday.

“Like I said we want to end on a high note we want to show were not just representing we still come up and play like it's still the first game of the UAAP and its still very important," Digha said.

De La Salle takes on holders University of the Philippines on Sunday.

Claret, PAREF-Southridge set to join UAAP High School Boys Football

c/o UAAP

For the first time in its storied history, the UAAP High School Boys' Football Tournament is expanding its reach by welcoming two guest schools—Claret School of Quezon City and PAREF Southridge School.

Known for their strong football programs, these institutions will join the four other high school football teams, 12-time defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman, Season 86 finalist University of Santo Tomas, De La Salle Zobel, and Ateneo de Manila University, in the battle for the championship.

The league welcomed the two schools during a signing ceremony held at the NCPAG Building in UP Diliman on Thursday.

The inclusion of the Claret School of Quezon City Red Roosters and the PAREF Southridge School Admirals not only strengthens the competition but also sets the stage for an unprecedented tournament as the UAAP seeks to enhance grassroots football development and expand opportunities for young student-athletes.

UAAP Season 87 President Carlo Vistan of University of the Philippines expressed his gratitude and excitement for this groundbreaking initiative saying, “Una sa lahat, we would like to thank the two schools who accepted this invitation. Without you, the UAAP won’t be facing an exciting time in its football competitions. As an athletic association composed of our eight-member universities, we always look for opportunities to promote and heighten amateur sports competitions in the country.

"This initiative to invite guest schools not only fills the competition slots but also underscores our commitment to grassroots development. Having Claret and Southridge join us is historic as they are the first guest schools to compete in our tournaments. This partnership reflects our shared vision of fostering young talent and promoting excellence in football. Welcome, and maraming salamat," he added.

This year marks a milestone as the tournament adopts a Final Four format for the first time in its history. The top two teams will enjoy a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals, raising the stakes and competition level.

Mark Molina, UAAP Board of Managing Directors member and event host representative from FEU, shared how this groundbreaking decision came to life.

“This idea was sparked during a discussion with Ateneo’s Em Fernandez on how to enhance the competitiveness of UAAP high school sports. With our commissioner Rely San Agustin’s guidance, we identified Claret and Southridge as the ideal participants," he said.

"This initiative brings excitement not only for football but also sets a precedent for other sports. We are proud to see it begin here. To Claret and Southridge, we look forward to seeing you on the field.”

For Claret and Southridge, the invitation to participate in the UAAP is both an honor and a challenge they are eager to embrace.

Razerly Ibanez, Principal of Claret School, expressed pride in their football legacy saying, “Claret is honored by the UAAP’s recognition of our long-standing commitment to football. This opportunity will allow our athletes to gain invaluable experience, discipline, and character. Under the leadership of Coach Benj Anicete, we are ready to contribute to the competition’s success and deepen our collaboration with the UAAP.”

Meanwhile, Darrel Arevalo, Sports Director of Southridge, highlighted the excitement surrounding their inclusion.

“We are incredibly grateful to be part of this historic moment. Southridge is a humble institution in Alabang, but this invitation has sparked tremendous enthusiasm in our community. Even our alumni are re-engaging. We are here to provide better competition and foster camaraderie within the UAAP community," he said.

The tournament kicks off on January 18, 2025, at the UP Diliman Football Stadium, which has been the home of UAAP football since Season 85.

UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag emphasized the league’s mission in embracing this change: “It’s about time we give attention to the beautiful game. The UAAP’s core mission is to support the development of Philippine sports. By welcoming guest schools, we are not only enriching the competition but also creating pathways for young athletes to shine on a larger stage.”

Aussies prove too strong for unheralded Pinoy pairs in BPT Challenge Nuvali

c/o PNVF

EMERGING Australian stars proved too much for two Philippine pairs on opening day of the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Nuvali Thursday in the City of Santa Rosa.

Jasmine Fleming and Elizabeth Alchin, the world No. 123 from Australia, used their height advantage to the hilt, hitting power shots and unreachable lobs in beating the Alas Pilipinas pair of Alexa Polidario and Jen Gaviola, 21-11, 21-13 in the qualifying round.

In a tournament loaded with top FIVB-rated teams from across the globe, even recently-crowned Asian Senior Beach Volleyball champions D’Artagnan Potts and Jack Pearse had to go through qualifying.

Unfortunately for the unheralded Philippine pair of Ronniel Rosales and Edwin Tolentino, they ran into the young Asia-Pacific star—ranked 64th worldwide—who breezed through the match, 21-8, 21-10 in 28 minutes.

The 5-foot-9 Gaviola and 5-foot-7 Polidario started strong and even held a slim lead early, but the six-footers from Australia, coming off a fifth-place finish in the Asian Seniors and seventh in the BPT Challenge Chennai, showed their might and experience in scoring the straight-sets win in the tournament organized by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation under its president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

Gaviola said she was not too disappointed, noting that they followed the coaches’ gameplan.

“Although we have played several international tournaments, sometimes it’s evident that we still lack the experience but we need to overcome those things,” the 26-year-old Gaviola said.

“I believe we did fine because we followed the coaches’ instructions. There were lapses and we need to address those,” she added.

Action now shifts to the main draw, which features the Alas Pilipinas top women’s pair of Gen Eslapor and Kly Orillaneda, ranked 125th in the world with a fifth-place finish in the AVC Beach Tour Taoyuan Open and ninth-place finishes in the Asian Seniors and the BPT Futures Qingdao.

“This is a huge challenge, much more than our previous tournaments. The top-rated Europeans and Americans are here so we have to be at our best,” said Orillaneda.

Bannering the women’s competition are Paris Olympians — world No. 22 Alexia Richard and Lézana Placette world No. 31 Clémence Vieira and Aline Chamereau of France.

World No. 36 Maryna Hladun and Tetiana Lazarenko of Ukraine, winner of the BPT Challenge Chennai last week, are also competing along with Jana Milutinovic and Stefanie Fejes of Australia, champion in the BPT Futures Coolangatta in March and the AVC Beach Tour Nuvali Open in April and bronze medalists in the Asian Seniors three weeks ago.

In the men’s side, James Buytrago and Rancel Varga, silver medalists in the BPT Futures Nuvali in April, are back together as they face stiffer competition in the BPT Challenge event, a feeder to the BPT Elite 16.

Ran Abdilla, who played with Buytrago in the Asian Seniors where they fell just short of the knockout rounds, now sees action with Lerry John Francisco in the field headed by twins Joaquin and Javier Bello from England, world-ranked 17 coming off victory in the Beach Pro Tour Elite 16 Rio de Janeiro.

Adamson secures postseason berth, sets Final Four date with La Salle

c/o UAAP

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

8 a.m. – FEU-D vs Ateneo (JHS)

10 a.m. – DLSZ vs AdU (JHS)

12 noon – AdU vs Ateneo (Women Stepladder)

3:30 p.m. – UP vs UST (Men Final Four)

6:30 p.m. – DLSU vs AdU (Men Final Four)

Adamson University completed the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Final Four by sending University of the East to the deepest abyss, taking the playoff for the fourth seed, 68-55, on Wednesday evening at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Soaring Falcons achieved the fourth seed by climbing from a 3-7 record to a 6-8 card to force the playoff before this manhandling that brought them back to the Final Four after missing it last season.

Adamson, which won four of its last five games after losing five in a row midway in the eliminations, will face the top-seeded De La Salle University, which holds a twice-to-beat incentive, in the semifinals.

In their two matchups in the elimination round, the Green Archers dominated both, winning 82-52 and 70-45.

No. 2 University of the Philippines and No. 3 University of Santo Tomas clash in the other Final Four pairing. The Fighting Maroons also hold twice-to-beat incentive.

“Sabi ko nga the other day, if we need to go through a playoff every year, we’ll go through it. The beauty about it is we really gave ourselves a chance. The players, more specifically did their part getting here but we still have a job to do,” said Soaring Falcons head coach Nash Racela.

Promising was the start of UE, looking inspired to open the match, racing to a 10-2 lead at the 6:22 mark of the first quarter.

But it all went downhill from there as Adamson courtesy of Matty Erolon, Cedrick Manzano, Manu Anabo, and AJ Fransman racked up 18 unanswered points bridging through the 9:10 mark of the second period to gain control, 20-10.

Then the Falcons needed to just go basket per basket - answering any run that the Warriors tried to erect.

“Sobrang thankful ako sa team namin kasi nalampasan namin itong mga knockout game. Nagtulungan lang talaga kami,” said Manzano, who reserved his best game this season for this knockout match, making 17 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks.

Mathew Montebon added 13 points, six assists, and three rebounds, while graduating forward Joshua Yerro chipped on seven points and seven rebounds.

Adamson also displayed its trademark defense, limiting UE to just one bench point. They put the clamps on bench sparkplugs Wello Lingolingo (0-of-3 from the field) and Ethan Galang (0-of-7).

With their season almost over, the Red Warriors took one last major hit at the 3:25 mark of the fourth quarter as Precious Momowei and Adamson’s Montebon had a mid-air collision. The Nigerian center laid on the floor in pain for six minutes before getting stretchered out of the court while a neck brace was worn on him.

Jack Cruz-Dumont left it all in his final game for UE with 15 points, four rebounds, and four assists. Also playing their last game were Galang and Gjerard Wilson.

The Red Warriors’ Final Four drought continued - now standing at 15 years. They were so close to ending that run of futility after a brilliant 5-2 first round record but collapsed hard, going 1-6 in the second including five straight defeats to close the eliminations.

Rainer Maga and John Abate chimed in 10 points each in the defeat while Momowei ended up with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks.

The Scores:

AdU 68 - Manzano 17, Montebon 13, Yerro 7, Mantua 6, Erolon 5, Anabo 5, Fransman 5, Ojarikre 4, Ramos 3, Alexander 3, Barasi 0, Ronzone 0, Dignadice 0, Barcelona 0, Ignacio 0.

UE 55 - J. Cruz-Dumont 15, Maga 10, Momowei 10, Abate 10, Fikes 9, Lingolingo 1, Wilson 0, Galang 0, Mulingtapang 0, Spandonis 0, Go 0.

Quarterscores: 16-10, 39-30, 52-40, 68-55.

Adamson secures last postseason berth in boys volleyball

c/o UAAP

ADAMSON University secured the final spot in the Final Four of the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys' Volleyball Tournament with a hard-fought four-set win over Far Eastern University-Diliman, 25-19, 25-21, 21-25, 29-27, on Wednesday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre in San Juan.

Both teams finished the elimination round with identical 7-7 records, leading to a playoff match.

This marks Adamson's first return to the Final Four since Season 82.

Adamson will face top-seeded University of Santo Tomas in the Final Four.

“Last pasok namin [sa Final Four] Season 82 eh. So, masarap sa feeling kasi pinaghirapan ng mga bata,” said Adamson head coach Marvin Ramoso, expressing his joy over his team's resilience after a tough 25-16, 25-23, 25-15 defeat to the UE Red Warriors last Sunday.

Second-ranked National University Nazareth School will take on UE in the other Final Four pairing.

The Final Four schedule is yet to be announced.

The fourth set was a tense back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to gain a clear advantage.

A powerful attack from Tyler Ramos gave FEU-D the first match point, but Adamson’s Jims Ducusin responded with a crucial kill to bring the score to deuce.

The tension escalated as the score reached three more deadlocks.

Finally, Ducusin seized control, delivering two consecutive kills to secure match point and clinch the hard-fought victory.

“Sinasabi ko lang naman sa mga bata, huwag bibitaw. Kahit anong mangyari, kahit lumamang ang FEU, walang bibitaw. ‘Yun ang gusto kong makita kasi sa ensayo, ‘yun ang pinraktis namin eh. Na kapag lamang ang kalaban, anong gagawin sa situation, ano ‘yung second motion na gagawin namin. Dapat kailangan sumunod sa sistema. ‘Yun lang naman ang gusto kong makita, at nangyari naman,” Ramoso added.

Ducusin led the Baby Falcons' attack, finishing with 22 points from 19 attacks, two blocks, and an ace in the intense one hour and 41-minute match.

Arvin Pon-an also contributed significantly, adding 18 points, including 15 attacks, two blocks, and an ace.

Clark Dingle set up the offense with 19 excellent sets, while Jhon Ian Guevarra anchored their defense with 12 excellent digs.

Ramos paced the Baby Tamaraws in the loss with 17 points, while Zedrick Calimlim and Kenneth Maliwanag added 13 and 10 points, respectively.

Cheerdance themes revealed for UAAP Season 87

c/o UAAP

THE STAGE is set for one of the UAAP’s most anticipated spectacles—the 2024 UAAP Cheerdance Competition, presented by MAX—promising a dazzling fusion of nostalgia and imagination this Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Reigning champion Far Eastern University is poised to bring the house down as it aims for back-to-back titles.

The FEU Cheering Squad, closing the event, also seeks its record 22nd podium finish in this annual showcase.

"As part of the events that we're having in the UAAP, I daresay that the CDC is the entertainment offering of the league," shared UAAP Season 87 Treasurer Bo Perasol from host school, the University of the Philippines.

"Iba po ang naibibigay sa 'ting audience ng CDC dahil isa po ito sa kaunting time na nagsasama-sama ang lahat."

The Ateneo Blue Eagles will kick off the competition with a cosmic tale, telling the story of the universe’s origin.

Next, the University of the East Pep Squad will transport the audience to the height of novelty pop, grooving to hits from the iconic Sexbomb Dancers.

Nostalgia continues as the eight-time champion University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe takes us back to the '90s, rekindling childhood memories through their "Batang '90s" routine.

Closing the first half, the Adamson University Pep Squad will have the crowd singing and dancing to beloved karaoke classics.

The second half will heat up with the UP Varsity Pep Squad, another eight-time champion, bringing summer vibes to the Arena.

Meanwhile, the National University Pep Squad promises to take spectators on a galactic adventure with a space-themed performance.

Returning to earth, the De La Salle Animo Squad will unleash their final move in a battle-themed spectacle, portraying themselves as kings and queens of the battlefield.

Finally, all eyes will be on FEUCS as the defending champions aim to freeze the audience in awe with a jaw-dropping finale.

NUNS secure final postseason ticket in JHS basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament Standings

*UE 13-1

*FEU-D 11-2

*UST 10-4

*NUNS 7-7

DLSZ 5-8

Ateneo 5-8

AdU 3-10

UPIS 0-14

*Final Four

Games on Saturday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum

8 a.m. – FEU-D vs Ateneo (JHS)

10 a.m. – DLSZ vs AdU (JHS)

12 p.m. – AdU vs Ateneo (Women's Stepladder QF)

3:30 p.m. – UP vs UST (Men's Final Four)

6:30 p.m. – DLSU vs Rank 4 (Men's Final Four)

National University Nazareth School secured the last spot in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament Final Four, while University of Santo Tomas ended the eliminations on a high on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bullpups eliminated the De La Salle Zobel Junior Archers with a thrilling 86-76 victory, while their postseason ticket was formalized with the Tiger Cubs’ 105-71 beating of the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles.

With these wins, the division’s Final Four cast became complete as NUNS and UST extinguished the postseason aspirations of DLSZ and Ateneo. 

The losses, on the other hand, gave the Junior Archers and the Blue Eagles identical 5-8 records in their penultimate Season 87 matches.

NUNS will face the twice-to-beat and top-seeded University of the East, while UST will clash against second seed Far Eastern University-Diliman in the Final Four. 

The Bullpups continued to surge at the right time, racking up three consecutive wins to close the eliminations with a 7-7 record and keep their title retention bid in play. 

“I’m very happy with how we ended the eliminations. Alam naman natin na may nainjure, tapos may mga nagstep up, tapos dumaan din kami sa stuggles, pero credit sa kanila kasi kitang kita ko naman na trinabaho nila everyday sa practice and especially sa games,” NUNS head coach Kevin de Castro said.

The Junior Archers recovered from a 60-69 deficit to start the payoff period as a five-point spurt by Ram Luna gave his squad a brief 72-71 lead with 6:11 left. 

However, David Sabareza powered the Bullpups’ 7-2 surge to establish a four-point cushion, 78-74, with less than three minutes left. 

A layup by Vince Magan inched DLSZ to within two points, but crucial charities by Tadeo, an inside hit from Nick Pena, and a Sabareza layup sealed NUNS’ win to end the eliminations. 

Chester Tulabut continued his fine play with 27 points, 18 rebounds, four assists, and two steals, while Sabareza ended the day with 19 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two blocks. 

Yujin Pena contributed 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Tadeo also tallied a double-double with 10 points and 17 rebounds. 

The Tiger Cubs extended their winning ways to four games, ending the eliminations at third place with a 10-4 record.  

“Yun talaga yung plan namin dahil preparation na ito for Final Four kasi malakas din yung FEU. Sinet ko sa kanila yung mindset na hindi maging relaxed para nakafocus kami sa Final Four and sa goal namin na manalo ng championship,” UST head coach Noli Mejos said. 

A strong 62-41 first half performance was all the momentum the Tiger Cubs needed to keep the Blue Eagles at bay. 

Carrying over its dominant start in the first half, UST put on a third quarter clinic, outscoring Ateneo with a 30-11 showing to send the Blue Eagles down a 92-52 hole. 

Jhon Canapi fired out 30 points on 12-of-25 shooting to go along with eight rebounds, two assists, and one steal, while Andwele Cabañero tallied the third triple-double of the season with 20 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Dustin Bathan contributed 21 points, six assists, five rebounds, and one steal, while Miguel Jubilado and Christian Guinto chipped in 11 points each. 

Magan paced the Junior Archers in their final game with 26 points and nine steals, while Centeno tallied 15 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

Luna contributed 13 points, three steals, two rebounds, and one assists, while team captain Melvin Tailan chipped in 12 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and one steal. 

Sky Jazul led the Blue Eagles in the losing effort with 12 points and four assists, while Domeng Ngo contributed 12 points, six steals, three rebounds, and three assists.

MVP frontrunner Zane Kallos was limited to 10 points on 3-of-11 shooting but still contributed 15 rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and one steal, while JD Juangco chipped in 10 points, seven assists, three rebounds, and two steals. 

The Scores:

Third Game:

NUNS (86) - Tulabut 27, Sabareza 19, N. Peña 10, Y. Peña 10, Tadeo 10, Khobuntin 5, Vitug 3, Quinto 2, Urea 0, Reroma 0.

DLSZ (76) - Magan 26, Centeno 15, Luna 13, Thailand 12, Tan 7, Llamas 3, Apao 0, Maglipon 0, Villaruz 0, Rivera 0.

Quarterscores: 21-15, 45-35, 61-57, 86-76. 

Fourth Game:

UST (105) - Canapi 30, Bathan 21, Cabañero 20, Jubilado 11, Guinto 11, Castro 4, Javier 2, Balague 2, Guerrero 2, Aguilar 0, Villacarlos 0, Duenas 0.

Ateneo (71) - Jazul 12, Ngo 12, Juango 10, Kallos 10, Molina 6, Bernarte 6, Divinagracia 4, Ramos 4, Lacsamana 4, Ylen 3, Valte 0, Dela Rosa 0, Fernandez 0, Meresen 0, Pineda 0, Hwang 0. 

Quarterscores: 33-19, 62-41, 92-52, 105-71.

UE, FEU-D lock in top two seeds in JHS action

c/o UAAP

Games on Saturday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum

8 a.m. – FEU-D vs Ateneo (JHS)

10 a.m. – DLSZ vs AdU (JHS)

12 p.m. – AdU vs Ateneo (Women's Stepladder QF)

3:30 p.m. – UP vs UST (Men's Final Four)

6:30 p.m. – DLSU vs Rank 4 (Men's Final Four)

UNIVERSITY of the East and Far Eastern University-Diliman locked in the first and second seeds, respectively, in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament with commanding victories on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Junior Warriors bounced back from their first loss of the season with a statement 100-58 wire-to-wire win against the also-ran Adamson Baby Falcons while the Baby Tamaraws cruised past the winless University of the Philippines Integrated School Fighting Maroons, 73-51, securing twice-to-beat advantages in the Final Four.

UE is set to face the fourth seed, which is still to be determined among National University Nazareth School, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle-Zobel.

FEU-D, on the other hand, will battle third-seeded University of Santo Tomas, which was still playing Ateneo as of press time. The Final Four schedule will be announced later.

After suffering their first defeat at the hands of FEU-D last Sunday, the Junior Warriors responded emphatically to finish the elimination round with a 13-1 record.

“I told them na we have to bounce back from the loss. Also, we have to work on kung ano pa yung kailangan namin pagtrabahuan. They responded very well. Masakit sa kanila yung talo ‘eh, but basketball ‘yon. Kaya ginawa na lang nila today best nila para makabawi,” said UE head coach Andrew Estrella.

UE's dominance was evident early, as they built a 32-17 lead in the first quarter. A 16-2 surge to close the second period pushed their advantage to 60-30 by halftime.

The lead ballooned to 46 points, 98-52, following consecutive layups from Goodluck Okebata and free throws by Jared Ferreros.

Nine Junior Warriors scored eight or more points, led by Mav Mesina bounce back outing of 15 points, six rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Mesina was held to just two points against the Baby Tams.

Gab Delos Reyes added 14 points and six boards, while Okebata posted a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds.

Kiefer Panganiban and Brian Orca chipped in 10 points each.

The Baby Tamaraws extended their winning streak to five games, finishing the eliminations with an 11-2 record.

“Buti nasecure na namin yung No. 2 spot, pero sabi ko nga sa mga bata, starting today, i-treat niyo na lahat as preparations for the Final Four… Nagrespond silang lahat sa tulong ng leadership nila Prince [Carino], CP [Miranda], nila Anton [Lopez], at ni Mark [Dulin],” said FEU-D head coach Muriel Garcia.

UPIS faced additional adversity as their school bus broke down, delaying their arrival and disrupting their pre-game routines.

FEU-D capitalized on the situation, using a 16-4 run in the second quarter to establish a 42-24 halftime lead.

Although UPIS cut the deficit to 11 in the third period, the Baby Tamaraws answered with a 10-3 run to restore an 18-point cushion heading into the final frame.

Prince Carino spearheaded FEU-D’s attack with 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting, along with eight rebounds, one assist, and one block.

Anton Lopez contributed 11 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and two steals, while Duke Santos added 10 points, three assists, and two steals.

CP Miranda also impressed with nine points, nine rebounds, six assists, and two steals.

For Adamson, Aurelio Fransman led the effort with 12 points and two rebounds but committed eight turnovers.

Prince Banate scored 10 points and grabbed six rebounds, while Craig Fongtong came close to a double-double with nine points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks.

Despite UPIS’ struggles, Jhustin Hallare shone in their final game, tallying 23 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Bruce Tubongbanua also delivered a strong performance with 20 points and 12 rebounds. The duo combined for 43 of the team’s 51 total points.

Adamson, which will still face DLSZ on Saturday, dropped to 3-10 slate while UPIS finished campaign winless.

The Scores:

First Game:

UE (100) - Mesina 15, Delos Reyes 14, Okebata 13, Panganiban 10, Orca 10, Bungar 9, Pascual 9, Ferreros 8, Oraa 8, Garcia 4, Dalosa 0.

AdU (58) - Fransman 12, Banate 10, Alcantara 9, Fongtong 9, Azurias 6, Ondevilla 6, Tiamzon 2, E. Jordan 2, Tuazon 2, A. Jordan 0, Ang 0.

Quarterscores: 32-17, 60-30, 83-46, 100-58.

Second Game:

FEU-D (73) - Carino 24, Lopez 11, Santos 10, Miranda 9, Pasinos 6, Dulin 4, Enriquez 3, Barlan 2, Diaz 2, Daa 2, Victoria 0, Lassiter 0, Pineda 0, Pingris 0, Adriano 0.

UPIS (51) - Hallare 23, Tubongbanua 20, Poquiz 2, Gepitan 2, Lugatiman 2, Baldovino 2, Cobico 0, Manguerra 0, Addatu 0, Rosete 0, Labao 0, Repane 0.

Quarterscores: 20-5, 42-24, 58-40, 73-51.

Adamson, UE set for playoff rumble

c/o UAAP

Men's

*DLSU 12-2

*UP 11-3

*UST 7-7

AdU 6-8

UE 6-8

x FEU 5-9

x NU 5-9

x Ateneo 4-10

JHS

*UE 12-1

*FEU-D 10-2

*UST 9-4

NUNS 6-7

DLSZ 5-7

Ateneo 5-7

x ADU 3-9

x UPIS 0-13

* - Final Four

x - eliminated

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

8 a.m. – AdU vs UE (JHS)

10 a.m. – UPIS vs FEU-D (JHS)

12 p.m. – NUNS vs DLSZ (JHS)

2 p.m. – Ateneo vs UST (JHS)

6:30 p.m. – AdU vs UE (Men)

ADAMSON University and University of the East clash for the remaining Final Four berth Wednesday in the UAAP Season 87 men's basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The winner of the 6:30 p.m. rubber match will play defending champion and top-ranked La Salle in the Final Four on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The other Final Four pairing pits No. 2 University of the Philippines and third-ranked University of Santo Tomas.

Armed with twice-to-beat protection after finishing 1-2 in the eliminations, the Green Archers and the Fighting Maroons need only to win once to advance to the best-of-three Finals.

For the Falcons and the Red Warriors, it's all about fighting for survival.

"When you get into the playoffs or you get into a kncokout game, yung mga nangyari before wala yun eh. Ang lagi ko sinasabi sa kanila expect na hindi mangyayari yung mga nangyari dati," said coach Nash Racela, as Adamson tries to make it back to the Final Four after missing the bus last year.

"It will be a totally different ball game so you don’t really know what to expect but samin gagawin pa rin namin yung best namin," he added.

With a 3-7 record and mired on a five-game losing streak, the Falcons were one-and-a-games behind then No. 4 Growling Tigers last Oct. 27, when they won three of the last four contests in the eliminations to finish with a 6-8 record.

During the same period, UE was sitting comfortably in third spot with a 6-3 record and was three-and-a-half games ahead of Adamson when the Recto-based squad dropped its last five matches and is now on the brink of missing out the Final Four.

The Red Warriors last reached the Final Four in 2009, where they went all the way to the Finals. UE last played in a playoff in 2014, narrowly losing to eventual champion National University, 49-51, when Bong Galanza missed a potential game-winning three-point shot in the dwinding seconds.

"Actually medyo mahirap because mentally, medyo down yung mga players or even yung coaches, but we just need to compete on Wednesday," said Red Warriors coach Jack Santiago.

"We had a talk with the players and sabi ko nga, nag reset kami, 0-0. Hopefully, maglaro kami ng maayos. It’s a do-or-die, no turning back, there’s no tomorrow," he added.

In the junior high school division, reigning champion National University Nazareth School looks to clinch the last Final Four seat when it takes on De La Salle Zobel at 12 p.m.

However, the Bullpups would have to rely on an Ateneo Blue Eagles loss to the UST Tiger Cubs at 2 p.m. to formally lock in their postseason ticket.

University of the East aims to regain its winning form in a clash against also-ran Adamson to open the five-game slate, while Far Eastern University-Diliman looks to keep University of the Philippines Integrated School winless at 10 a.m.

Ateneo men, FEU women survive table tennis stepladder

c/o UAAP

ATENEO de Manila University and Far Eastern University claimed the second seats of the UAAP Season 87 Table Tennis tournament men’s and women’s division Finals, respectively, following victories in the stepladder semifinals on Monday at the Homecourt, Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.

The Blue Eagles advanced to their third straight championship round after a 3-1 conquest of the Adamson University Soaring Falcons.

The Lady Tamaraws moved to their first title showdown since Season 78 (2015) with a similar 3-1 decision past the Ateneo Blue Eagles.

Both teams will have their hands full in the Finals on Tuesday, starting at 8 a.m., against the two undefeated University of Santo Tomas teams in this tournament backed by Akari, Topcoms Marketing, and Hua Ching Foundation.

UST hopes to become the first program since De La Salle University in 2015 to sweep all four titles, as the España-based paddlers earlier won the high school girls and boys titles.

Wrency Abad steered the second-ranked Ateneo with an 11-9, 11-4, 11-8 sweep of Adamson’s Joshua Lascano. Victor De Asis and Zherdel Fresco took the 2-1 advantage with an 11-7, 11-4, 8-11, 11-7 win over Jhon Baculos and Aldrean Gacho.

Shairah Gabisay fended off Ateneo’s Audrey Solis, 16-14, 12-14, 11-8, 11-8, to send the second-seeded FEU into a Finals. Glieza Ampalid and Krisha Reyes set the clincher with an 11-7, 9-11, 11-7, 11-7 take of Kaela Aguilar and Therese Docto.

The Soaring Falcons and the Blue Eagles finished with the bronze trophies in the men’s and women’s divisions after taking down the DLSU Green and the Lady Paddlers in the stepladder first round.

Amiel Sumadsad secured Adamson’s first podium of the season with an 11-7, 11-3, 11-6 rout of La Salle’s Dino Gabriel Marcelo.

Kathleene Bulaqueña clinched the Ateneo bronze with a 9-11, 11-8, 11-9, 9-11, 11-3 marathon over La Salle’s Shyrein Redoquero.

UST at cusp of completing its collegiate beach volleyball sweep

c/o UAAP

Games Tuesday at the Sands SM By The Bay

8 a.m. – UST vs UP (Men)

8:45 a.m. – NU vs FEU (Men)

9:30 a.m. – UST vs FEU (Women)

10:15 a.m. – NU vs AdU (Men)

2 p.m. – 3rd Place Matches (Men/Women)

3:30 p.m. – Final Matches (Men/Women)

The University of Santo Tomas needs a couple of wins in both collegiate divisions to hammer home its dominance in beach volleyball when the final day of the UAAP Season 87 collegiate tournament takes place Tuesday at the Sands SM by the Bay.

The duo of Sofiah Pagara and Khy Progella, with reserve Lorien Gamboa, is seeking to extend the Tiger Sands reign to a seventh straight season and a tenth crown, while reigning Most Valuable Player Alche Gupiteo and Dominique Gabito, as well as reserve Aldwin Gupiteo, is hoping to secure their sixth straight title and ninth overall.

Both squads from Espana have yet to drop a set so far in the tournament on their way to elimination round sweeps.

Gupiteo and Gabito will kick off the semifinal action at 8am against the University of the Philippines' lineup of Angelo Lipata, Christian Pitogo, and reserve Jonathan delos Santos, while Pagara and Progella will have to deal with the duo of Lovely Lopez and Melody Pons, as well as reserve Floriz Ann Papa of Far Eastern University at 930am.

On the other bracket, National University is hoping to arrange a rematch against UST and end their heartbreaks, the latest being both their elimination round meetings this past Sunday ending up in defeats that serve as their only blemish in this season at 6-1.

Alex Iraya and Sky Gemarino, with reserve Leo Aringo, Jr., face off against their counterparts from Morayta (Reynan Postorioso, Amet Bituin, and reserve Kyle Clarence Tandoc) at 845am, with Honey Grace Cordero, Kat Epa, and reserve Kizil Quijote going up against the fantastic freshmen of Adamson in Shaira Nitura, and Fel Sagaysay, as well as reserve Red Bascon to close out the semifinal action at 1015am.

The winners will face off in the final at 330apm for the men and 415pm for the women, with the remaining teams set for a third place duel at 2pm for the men and 245pm for the women.