UAAP Sept. 27 preview: NU looks to bounce back against Tams, UST-La Salle renewed rivalry 

The UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament resumes on September 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with two highly anticipated matchups that promise to test the grit and depth of their contenders.

National University (NU) squares off with Far Eastern University (FEU) in the opener at noon, before University of Santo Tomas (UST) takes on De La Salle University (DLSU) in a primetime rivalry clash at 4:30 p.m.

Bulldogs eye momentum against Tamaraws

NU enters its duel with FEU brimming with confidence after a commanding 72–57 victory over UE in its opening game.

 Versatile guard Jake Figueroa spearheaded the Bulldogs’ attack, showcasing his ability to slash, penetrate, and create opportunities for his teammates. 

Figueroa’s playmaking will be pivotal against the Tamaraws’ length and physical defense. NU’s roster also features reliable names such as Ian Jolo Manansala, Steve Nash Enriquez, Omar John, Miguel Ona, and Kenjo Canete, giving head coach Jeff Napa a mix of experience and youthful energy to lean on. To stay on track, the Bulldogs will need balanced scoring and discipline on both ends.

The Tamaraws, meanwhile, are determined to impose their size and physicality inside. Their blueprint has always centered on rebounding and generating second-chance points, and against NU, that will mean testing the Bulldogs’ frontcourt discipline. 

FEU also boasts a deep rotation, with its bench tasked to sustain energy and keep the tempo high when the starters rest. 

Forcing NU into hurried shots and turnovers will be key, allowing the Tamaraws to fuel their transition game and maximize scoring opportunities in the open court. 

UAAP Season 88 Basketball Schedule #uaapseason88 pic.twitter.com/VFlRSkUtqK

— Take Aim (@TakeAimLS) September 13, 2025

Tigers, Archers renew classic rivalry

Later in the day, the spotlight turns to UST and La Salle, who collide in a clash brimming with storylines. Both squads are fresh from wins last weekend at the Quadricentennial Pavilion. 

The Growling Tigers stunned defending champions UP with a statement 87–67 blowout, while the Green Archers survived a gritty Adamson side in a nail-biter, 60–58.

La Salle leaned heavily on Mike Phillips, who delivered a monster double-double of 17 points, 16 rebounds, along with four blocks and three steals in the opener. Newcomer Jacob Cortez added 16 points in his UAAP debut in green and white, while Mason Amos, after a sit-out year, provides floor spacing and experience from his time under coach Tim Cone with Gilas.

 With Kean Baclaan also strengthening their guard rotation, the Archers have multiple options on the perimeter to complement their interior presence.

UST, meanwhile, has become one of the tournament’s early surprise packages.

 Rookie big man Collins Akowe immediately made his mark with a jaw-dropping 29-point, 17-rebound performance against UP, proving why he was one of the most hyped additions this season. 

The 6’10” slotman, who earned MVP honors in the Asiabasket College leg with averages of 14.5 points and 15.5 boards, gives the Tigers a legitimate anchor in the paint. 

Complementing him is sharpshooting guard Kyle Paranada, who chipped in 18 points against the Fighting Maroons, and the reliable Nic Cabañero, whose ability to control tempo and score in crunch time remains a key weapon.

 Adding intrigue is the return of Forthsky Padrigao, who is set to make his Season 88 debut after sitting out the opener.

The clash will be a battle of styles: La Salle’s polished, disciplined system against UST’s youthful fire and physical brand of basketball.

 For the Archers, the key will be neutralizing Akowe inside and forcing the Tigers into perimeter shots. For UST, leveraging Akowe’s size, Paranada’s shooting, and Cabañero’s leadership could tilt the momentum their way.

As both NU-FEU and UST-DLSU look to carve out early-season positioning, September 27 promises high-intensity battles that could set the tone for the weeks ahead in UAAP Season 88.

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!