Metro Manila, Philippines – The De La Salle University Green Archers completed the Final Four cast with a 78-72 victory over the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles in the last elimination round game of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday, Nov. 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Jacob Cortez delivered when it mattered the most for the Green Archers, highlighted by a clutch jumper to give La Salle some breathing room at the dying seconds of the fourth period. The second generation cager finished with 20 points, seven assists, and three rebounds for the Green Archers.
The Blue Eagles, for a long stretch in the match, looked like they were on their way to force a stepladder for the fourth seed as the Katipunan-based squad established a double digit lead.
La Salle, however, made huge shots and got crucial stops down the stretch to steal the win.
The Green Archers now set up a Final Four showdown against top seed National University Bulldogs armed with a twice-to-beat edge.
With the loss, Ateneo failed to reach the semifinals for the second straight time under multi-titled mentor Tab Baldwin.
Mike Phillips contributed impactful minutes again for La Salle as he tallied 13 points and 16 rebounds.
Dom Escobar led the Blue Eagles with 18 markers and four boards.
