The UP Fighting Maroons aim to take control of the UAAP Season 88 Finals as they go toe-to-toe once more against the DLSU Green Archers.
The University of the Philippines returns to the grand stage for the fifth straight season, aiming to strike first in its UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Finals showdown with De La Salle University as Game 1 tips off on Wednesday, December 10, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Fighting Maroons enter the best-of-three series with the confidence of a battle-tested contender that has weathered every scenario the season has thrown at them — including a gripping 82–81 escape over the UST Growling Tigers to secure their Finals berth.
Once again, Harold Alarcon stood at the heart of UP's composure under pressure.
Alarcon delivered a team-high 22 points in the Final Four, providing stability at the height of UST’s furious comeback.
Whether through tough drives, timely jumpers, or his signature fourth-quarter poise, the veteran guard once again proved why he is one of the most reliable late-game performers in the league.
His ability to steady UP’s offense, especially when momentum swings wildly, will be crucial as the Maroons face a resurgent Green Archers side riding back-to-back knockout wins.
But UP’s semifinal triumph was not a one-man effort. Francis Nnoruka shrugged off a leg injury scare to finish with 19 points, nine rebounds, three blocks, and two steals, while Terrence Fortea drilled the cold-blooded go-ahead triple inside the final minute.
[ALSO READ: Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea vow to go all out in UP's bid for back-to-back UAAP titles]
With all eyes on Game 1, the Fighting Maroons’ proven championship core gives them a strong foundation as they begin their title defense.
The stage is set for another classic between two storied programs — and UP expects its ‘Maroon 5’ to help it strike first.
Game 1 of the UAAP Season 88 Finals fires off at 4:00 p.m.
[ALSO READ: The UP-DLSU Rivalry: Looking back on high-stakes showdowns since UAAP Season 84]
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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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.]