Ateneo books fifth straight Finals stint at FEU's expense, La Salle forces do-or-die vs UP

Ateneo de Manila University booked its fifth straight UAAP men's basketball Finals appearance after defeating Far Eastern University, 85-72, in the Final Four games of the league's 84th season on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Blue Eagles relied on a 33-point explosion against FEU's 17 points in the second quarter to end the first half at 49-33.

BJ Andrade listed 16 points while SJ Belangel had 14 in the Katipunan-based squad's win. Gian Mamuyac and Dave Ildefonso rounded up the list of double-digit scorers with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

RJ Abarrientos topped the Tamaraws in scoring with 16 points while Emmanuel Ojuola had 13 points and 14 rebounds.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University forced a rubber match after an 83-80 win over the University of the Philippines.

Evan Nelle led the Green Archers with 26 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and three steals. Justine Baltazar, meanwhile, made 15 points and 18 boards on top of three assists and two blocks.

Malick Diouf and Ricci Rivero tallied 18 markers each for the Fighting Maroons, while Zavier Lucero made 17 points.

The La Salle-UP rubber match will be played on Friday, while the Finals will start on Sunday.

Meanwhile, UAAP women's volleyball will commence on Thursday with Ateneo going against La Salle in the marquee matchup.

—JMB, GMA News