MANILA, Philippines – The most anticipated sporting event of the year is back as the UAAP finals are set to tip off this October 4 on ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Sports+Action! The stage is set as National University and Far Eastern University go head to head for collegiate basketball immortality and the UAAP crown.
ABS-CBN Sports will bring the exciting action of the UAAP straight to the homes of Filipinos across the country and around the globe. The UAAP finals game 1, the 1st of a 3 game series, will air live this Saturday on ABS-CBN Channel 2 at 3:00pm, on ABS-CBN Sports+Action at 7:00pm and on TFC.
This year, the NU Bulldogs defied the odds and overcame a twice to beat disadvantage against the star studded Ateneo Blue Eagles team lead by league MVP, Kiefer Ravena. The Bulldogs displayed championship caliber defense like no other and left the high-octane offense of The Eagles in disarray. Moreover, team captain Gelo Alolino was excellent late in the game hitting a 3-point shot and 2 crucial free throws scoring the team’s last 5 points. Lastly, NU bigman Alfred Aroga was able to seal the victory with a block against ADMU’s Ravena. This year marks the first time NU will be in the finals in over 40 years.
On the other side, the FEU Tamaraws survived the series against a tough De La Salle Green Archer’s team lead by Jeron Teng. FEU’s fast paced offense and stellar outside shooting proved to be too much for the Green Archers. The Tamaraw’s ended DLSU’s back-to-back championship hopes with a buzzer beating 3-pointer by star Forward Mac Belo. In an interview after the game, Mac Belo credited his game winning shot to a lot of luck and his teammate Mike Tolomia for drawing the defense and giving a good assist. With this win, the FEU Tamaraws have a chance to win its 20th title in the Men’s Basketball division.
Will NU complete their dream season by winning only their 2nd title in the UAAP Men’s Basketball division or will FEU stay true to their winning ways and raise yet another championship banner?
Find out who will come out on top this year! For updates on the series schedules, tune in to ABS-CBN, ABS-CBN Sports and Action or visit ABS-CBN Sports + Action’s official website.
Photo: Rappler.com