DLSU’s Mike Phillips, UST’s Collins Akowe lead UAAP statistical race after first round

The battle for UAAP Season 88’s top individual honor is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory — and La Salle’s Mike Phillips currently sits at the summit.

The 6-foot-8 forward has once again proven why he’s the heart and anchor of the Green Archers, leading the Collegiate Men’s Basketball Most Valuable Player race after the first round with an impressive 84.429 statistical points (SPs). 

A two-time Mythical Team member, Phillips powered through seven games averaging 13.29 points, 15.71 rebounds, 3.57 assists, and 1.29 steals, helping La Salle stay in the thick of the Final Four chase with a 4-3 record.

But breathing down his neck is Collins Akowe, the relentless Nigerian center from the University of Santo Tomas, who’s putting up MVP-worthy numbers himself — 16.29 points, 15.29 rebounds, 2.0 blocks, 1.29 assists, and 1.0 steals for a 5-2 Tigers squad. 

Though Akowe is ineligible for the MVP plum due to his foreign student-athlete (FSA) status, he’s all but guaranteed the Best Foreign Student-Athlete award, and currently leads all rookies as well.

La Salle’s Mike Phillips is the frontrunner for the MVP honors in the #UAAPSeason88 men’s basketball tournament.

Trailing him are UST’s Collins Akowe, FEU’s Janrey Pasaol, UE’s Precious Momowei, and NU’s Jake Figueroa. pic.twitter.com/RJFrOqmdRL

— Randolph B. Leongson (@dolphtrythis) October 19, 2025

Rounding out the top tier of the MVP race is Far Eastern University’s breakout sophomore Janrey Pasaol, who’s been a bright spot in the Tamaraws’ turbulent campaign. Pasaol sits in third with 80.429 SPs, showcasing his all-around brilliance with averages of 18.29 points, 6.57 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.14 steals.

Not far behind is University of the East’s Precious Momowei (80.0 SPs), another FSA who’s been a force on both ends of the floor — though UAAP rules allow only one FSA to be part of the Mythical selection.

The National University Bulldogs’ steady star Jake Figueroa sits fifth with 77.429 SPs, posting 15.43 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.14 assists, 2.14 steals, and 1.14 blocks per game while helping NU to a league-leading 6-1 slate. His mix of hustle and leadership has quietly made him one of the season’s most valuable pieces.

If the round ended today, the final Mythical Five spot would go to UST’s Nic Cabanero, who continues to shine as the Tigers’ offensive engine. The streaky scorer averages 19.43 points, 6.29 rebounds, 2.29 assists, and 1.71 steals — good for 76.571 SPs, putting him within striking distance of Figueroa.

Just outside the elite group are FEU’s Mo Konateh (74.429), Ateneo’s Kymani Ladi (67.571), Blue Eagle sharpshooter Dom Escobar (64.0), and UST’s Forthsky Padrigao (63.667), all of whom have shown flashes of brilliance that could make the second round even more unpredictable.

With the league approaching its midpoint, the MVP race remains wide open — a thrilling reflection of how balanced and competitive UAAP Season 88 has become.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!