The Ateneo De Manila University Blue Eagles try to stop the rampaging defense of the National University Bulldogs on Wednesday’s UAAP Final Four game in which the winner will advance to the finals.
The Blue Eagles want to dislodge the grip that the Bulldogs have on them, after losing all the three meetings they have this season. The Blue Eagles suffered a terrible defeat last Wednesday, 78-74.
Coming off from a 15-point deficit, the Blue Eagles rallied in the fourth quarter to overtake the lead, 72-71, on Nico Elorde’s triple with 1:14 left.
Kiefer Ravena couldn’t connect in the final minute to complete the comeback for the Blue Eagles. The MVP ended up with 24 points to lead all the scoring. However, he shot poorly at 9-of-35. If the Eagles have to win this game, Ravena should take lesser shots and give his teammates the opportunities to create their shots.
The NU Bulldogs, known as No. 1 in defense, displayed how to contain Ravena and the rest of the Eagles. Coach Erik Altamirano knows how to derail the offense of Ateneo.
JJ Alejandro has been the biggest contributor of NU in terms of playing against the Eagles. Alejandro scored 20 points on 3 of 4 shooting outside the arc. Moreover, he delivered the crucial shots in the fourth quarter.
NU vs Ateneo UAAP basketball game provides the best offense facing the best defense in the league. Will Ravena be able to play with efficiency?
NU vs Ateneo start time is at 2:00 PM on October 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Which team will advance?