UAAP: UST locks in third Final Four spot; NU holds top, DLSU, FEU & Ateneo scramble for last berth

In a dramatic turn of events, the UST Growling Tigers punched their ticket to the UAAP Season 88 men’s Final Four, handing the top-seeded NU Bulldogs a surprising 80–71 defeat at the Mall of Asia Arena. The victory not only locked UST into the third seed but also tightened the competition for the last remaining postseason slot, with DLSU, FEU, and Ateneo still battling for survival.

UST trailed for most of the matchup, but a decisive 10–0 run late in the third quarter dramatically shifted momentum. That surge propelled them to a 58–53 lead heading into the fourth period, a cushion they protected until the final buzzer. Gelo Crisostomo anchored UST’s push with 13 points, five rebounds, a block, and a steal.

 Collins Akowe was equally crucial, notching a double-double of 11 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists, providing stability on both ends of the floor. The Tigers also drew consistent support from Mark Llemit and Amiel Acido, who chipped in 11 points apiece, helping UST close out the upset. With the win, UST improved to 8–5, officially clinching the No. 3 seed. 

By claiming the third seed UST will face the UP Fighting Maroons for the third consecutive final four matchup, having previously met the Diliman-based squad in the Season 82 step-ladder and Season 87 with UP claiming the latter encounter.

Despite the loss, the NU Bulldogs have been one of the most formidable teams this season. They entered the game with an impressive 11–2 record, riding strong performances and disciplined defensive schemes.

 Earlier this season, NU showcased its resilience in an 82–78 win over DLSU, where they rallied late behind the efforts of PJ Palacielo and Reinhard Jumamoy. The Bulldogs also asserted their defensive identity in a 66–50 blowout of Ateneo, limiting the Blue Eagles to just 26.7% from long range.

NU wraps up the elimination round at 11–3, a record good enough to secure a twice-to-beat advantage heading into the Final Four. The loss to UST may serve as a late reminder of what needs tightening, but the Bulldogs remain heavy contenders for the crown.

See the updated standings for the #UAAPSeason88 Men’s, Women’s, and 16U Basketball Tournaments after the games today, Nov. 23, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Watch the games live on One Sports, UAAP Varsity Channel, and on the Pilipinas Live app.#StrengthInMotionHopeInAction pic.twitter.com/4oVRY8Vqrm

— The UAAP (@uaap_official) November 23, 2025

With UST safely in postseason territory, the battle for the final Final Four berth now intensifies among De La Salle University, Far Eastern University, and Ateneo de Manila University. As of the latest standings, DLSU sits at 7–6, while both FEU and Ateneo have records of 6–7.

La Salle has had an up-and-down season, including a tight loss to FEU that exposed cracks in their late-game execution. 

Ateneo opened the season strong with a notable 81–74 win over La Salle, powered by Kymani Ladi, Dom Escobar, and Shawn Tuano, but their momentum faltered after NU’s dominant 66–50 victory, putting their Final Four hopes in jeopardy. FEU, anchored on the offensive prowess of Janrey Pasaol, has remained competitive but inconsistent, exemplified by their 70–64 loss to NU.

Depending on the outcomes of the remaining games, several scenarios could unfold for the fourth Final Four spot. If DLSU wins its remaining games, they could claim the fourth seed outright, avoiding any playoff complications.

 If FEU or Ateneo wins out and DLSU stumbles, tiebreaker scenarios could arise, potentially triggering either a head-to-head playoff or a multi-team play-in, depending on point differentials. Late-season upsets by FEU or Ateneo could further reshape the bracket, potentially knocking La Salle out of contention entirely.

For UST, securing the third seed is a significant breakthrough. Their timely rise and composure in high-stakes games make them a legitimate threat entering the semifinals. For NU, the loss is a wake-up call but not a derailment. 

With a twice-to-beat cushion secured, they remain strong contenders for a finals berth. As for DLSU, FEU, and Ateneo, every remaining possession could determine their fate. 

With only one ticket left to the Final Four, the final stretch of the season promises high drama, tight finishes, and potentially playoff-level intensity even before the postseason officially begins.

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