UP Fighting Maroons eye payback vs UST

The UAAP Season 88 basketball games scheduled for Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena feature multiple matchups, with the men's game between the University of the Philippines (UP) and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) at 4:30 p.m. being a key highlight. UP, the reigning champion, is seeking revenge for an earlier 87-67 loss to UST and aims to strengthen its hold on the second seed in the tournament standings.

UP, with a 6-3 record, trails leader National University (8-2) and is competing closely with De La Salle University (6-4) and UST (5-4) for a Top Two position, which includes a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four. The team has improved after a slow start, winning four of its last six games, and hopes for a better outcome on neutral ground compared to their previous defeat at UST's home arena.

In contrast, UST is experiencing a three-game losing streak after a strong 5-1 start, putting their Top Four hopes at risk. Coach Goldwin Monteverde of UP emphasized focusing on team improvements and preparing for UST as a competitive opponent, relying on players like Harold Alarcon and Francis Nnoruka. UST, led by import Collins Akowe, acknowledges their second-round struggles but remains determined to prove resilience and stay in contention.

Other notable games include Ateneo de Manila University (4-5) facing the winless University of the East (0-9) at 2 p.m., where Ateneo aims to end a five-game losing streak and re-enter the Final Four race, while UE welcomes back Wello Lingolingo from suspension. The day's schedule also includes women's and 16U matches, but the men's UP vs. UST clash is the central focus due to its implications for the tournament standings.