Ateneo is on the brink of ending a nine-year wait for a UAAP women’s basketball Finals drought, but standing in the Blue Eagles’ path is the modern-day dynasty of the NU Lady Bulldogs.
No. 3 Ateneo aims for an upset and a chance to end a nine-year finals drought, but standing in the Blue Eagles’ path are the defending champion NU Lady Bulldogs in the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball tournament on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Game time is at 10:30 a.m.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | UAAP Season 88 basketball guide, where to watch, highlights, more]
With their season on the line, the Katipunan-based squad lived to fight another day after eliminating the fourth-seeded Adamson Lady Falcons, 66–56.
Reigning two-time MVP Kacey Dela Rosa powered Ateneo with a monster double-double of 17 points and 20 rebounds.
Kai Oani and Player of the Game Camille Malagar added 13 and 12 points, respectively, while Sarah Makanjuola pulled down 16 rebounds to go with nine points, two steals, and two blocks.
[ALSO READ: Kai Oani grows into herself as Ateneo Blue Eagles breakthrough in UAAP stepladder semis]
The crucial win finally secured Ateneo a podium finish after three consecutive fourth-place campaigns.
But the challenge only grows tougher for head coach LA Mumar and his wards as they now brace for the daunting task of trying to send powerhouse NU packing early.
If the Blue Eagles manage to get past the Lady Bulldogs, it will mark their first finals appearance since 2016 and set up a best-of-three championship showdown with the unbeaten top seed UST Growling Tigresses.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]