The UP Fighting Maroons look to complete their comeback and defend their title as they face the DLSU Green Archers in the winner-take-all Game 3 of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Finals.
The University of the Philippines stares at one last hurdle as the champs prepare for a winner-take-all showdown against De La Salle University in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Finals on Wednesday, December 17, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
With the championship hanging in the balance, UP enters the decisive clash aiming to complete its comeback after forcing the rubber match with a gritty 66–63 victory in Game 2.
For the Fighting Maroons, the task now is to sustain that level of urgency — and Jacob Bayla is expected to be a crucial piece in that final push.
Bayla has taken on one of the toughest assignments in the series, tasked with checking La Salle’s main gun in Jacob Cortez, all while providing spacing and timely offense on the other end.
[ALSO READ: From Quiambao to Cortez: Jacob Bayla is UP's designated stopper in UAAP Finals]
Of course, UP’s ability to extend the series hinged on collective effort after Gerry Abadiano and Harold Alarcon's brilliant performances in the first two games.
Alongside Torres, State U will again rely on Francis Nnoruka to anchor the paint, with Noy Remogat, Terrence Fortea, and Reyland Torres expected to provide additional pressure on both ends.
The Fighting Maroons know they must remain composed against a Green Archers squad equally desperate to close the series.
For UP, the mission is clear: defend with purpose, value every possession, and trust the system that has carried the program to multiple Finals appearances.
[ALSO READ: Noy Remogat nears first UAAP title after UP forces winner-take-all Game 3 vs La Salle]
With history on the line and no room for error, the Fighting Maroons head into Game 3 determined to fight for every stop, every rebound, and every loose ball — one last time.
Tip off is at 3:30 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo/One Sports)
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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.]