FAR Eastern University (FEU) and University of Santo Tomas (UST) try to keep hold of the lead when they face separate opponents on the final day on Wednesday of the first round of eliminations of Season 78 University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball action at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Tamaraws battle the streaking National University (NU) Bulldogs at 4 p.m., while the Growling Tigers face the skidding University of the East (UE) Red Warriors at 2 p.m.
FEU and UST are tied on top with 5-1 win-loss records, with both teams are coming off contrasting wins. The Tamaraws avoided the upset axe and beat Adamson University, 64-60, while the Growling Tigers rode their hot shooting to demolish De La Salle, 77-61.
FEU Head Coach Nash Racela is bracing for a tough game against the Bulldogs, who won three straight after a 0-3 start in the season.
“Nakuha na nila ang game nila. We always believe na kahit nag-tatlong talo sila, nag-struggle sila, sabi namin isang panalo lang NU, magtutuluy-tuloy ‘yan,” Racela said. “They have the experience, they have good players, best import. Mahirap kalaban ang NU. Nakabuwelo na sila.”
The Bulldogs are back on track to retaining the crown after a shaky start. They are well-rested, having beaten season host University of the Philippines, 68-52, on September 26.
“At least we have more time to prepare for the FEU game,” Bulldogs Head Coach Eric Altamirano said. “The players are now getting their timing.”
Alfred Aroga is starting to give NU the performance expected of him, while Gelo Alolino is hoping to for his team to carry their momentum against the Tamaraws.
“We are still climbing in the team standings. Good thing we were able to win three in a row after three straight losses. We need to focus in our next game,” Alolino said in Filipino.
This is the first time that FEU and NU will clash after their titular showdown last season won by the Bulldogs to end their 54-year title drought.
Standings: UST 5-1, FEU 5-1, La Salle 4-3, Ateneo 4-3, NU 3-3, UE 2-4, UP 2-5, Adamson 1-6.