NIKOLE JAVIER

University of the Philippines and Ateneo renew their rivalry while La Salle and Adamson try to press their bids for the fourth and last semis berth in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

The two powerhouse teams have gone into overtime thrice in their last four encounters with the reigning titlists emerging winners in all three occasions.

The Eagles hope to end their losing run to the Carl Tamayo-led Maroons in their 6:30 p.m. showdown as they intend to boost their own bid for the second twice-to-beat bonus – a reward to the top two finishers at the end of the elims.

Sporting an 11-2 record, the Maroons are already assured of that bonus even if they lose to the Eagles who are carrying a 9-3 mark

The Adamson Falcons, on the other hand, are determined to enhance their semis bid when they go up against the third-running National University Bulldogs at 11 a.m.

After NU, Adamson battles Ateneo on the last playing date on Nov. 30.

The match is equally important for the Bulldogs since they still have a shot at earning a bonus with their 9-4 mark.

La Salle is also on a mission when it clashes with University of the East at 3 p.m. The Warriors stunned the Archers in the first round, 81-74, on Oct. 12.

Both La Salle and Adamson are toting similar 6-6 marks and need to win their last two games for the No. 4 spot.

After three straight escape acts, the Archers have positioned themselves to another possible Final Four appearance. 

La Salle’s Penny Estacio is expected to be a marked man after a solid performance against the Bulldogs.