UP Extends Final Four Streak with hard-fought win over Adamson
The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons continued their impressive run in UAAP Season 88, defeating Adamson University 70-65 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to clinch their seventh consecutive Final Four berth. The victory not only highlighted UP’s season-long consistency but also cemented their status as one of the dominant programs in Philippine college basketball this decade.
Led by a balanced offensive assault and a stifling defensive effort, UP overcame a challenging third period and closed out the game with poise. The Maroons, who entered the day with a strong winning streak, showed the depth that has defined their campaign—not relying on a single scorer but distributing the scoring load across multiple contributors.
Key moments fueling the UP surge
From the opening whistle, UP set the tone with disciplined defense and deliberate offensive sets. As the game progressed, several players stepped up to preserve the lead and thwart Adamson’s attempts to regain momentum. A pivotal stretch in the fourth quarter saw the Maroons tighten their defense, forcing misses and converting on crucial transitions that widened the gap just enough to secure the win.
Offensively, UP’s balance stood out. They moved the ball effectively, finding open looks and maintaining tempo to keep Adamson’s defense guessing. The team’s resilience shone through in the final minutes, where execution under pressure helped seal the victory and extend their Final Four streak.
What this means for UP’s championship ambitions
clinching a seventh straight Final Four berth is more than a statistical milestone; it underscores UP’s established system, coaching philosophy, and recruiting pipeline that consistently yields competitive rosters. With the postseason now in clear view, the Fighting Maroons can focus on tightening rotations, preserving health, and honing in on areas that elevated them to this level—such as defensive communication, rebounding, and efficient shot selection.
For Adamson, the loss is a reminder of the margins in UAAP. While they fought hard and executed well in stretches, they must regroup and address minute details that can swing tight games in the league’s crucible. The Falcons showed resilience and capability, suggesting that they will be a threat in upcoming fixtures as they push for a strong finish.
Player voices and team mindset
After the game, UP’s leadership emphasized a mentality built on consistency and collective responsibility. Coaches highlighted the importance of maintaining focus across the entire 40 minutes and making the right plays at crunch time. Players spoke about embracing the pressure of the postseason and trusting the process that has brought them to this historic run of Final Four appearances.
Historically, UP has used the UAAP postseason as a proving ground for their program’s growth. The 70-65 win over Adamson reiterates that the Maroons are not merely content with reaching the Final Four; they aim to maximize their opportunities once there, leveraging depth, experience, and a calm, methodical approach to every game.
Looking ahead: what’s next for UP and the league
With the Final Four secured, UP will likely assess scheduling, player rotations, and rest strategies as they prepare for the upcoming eliminations and potential semifinal matchups. The league, meanwhile, can expect a tighter, more competitive postseason as teams jockey for position and momentum heading into the most critical stretch of the season.
In the broader context of UAAP, UP’s sustained success contributes to a narrative of legacy and excellence. The Fighting Maroons’ seventh straight Final Four appearance stands as a testament to a program that prioritizes development, teamwork, and a consistent game plan that translates to wins when it matters most.
Bottom line
UP’s 70-65 victory over Adamson at the Smart Araneta Coliseum not only extended their Final Four streak to seven but also reinforced the perception of the Fighting Maroons as a cornerstone team in UAAP Season 88. As the postseason approaches, fans can expect a blend of seasoned poise and fresh energy from a program that has become synonymous with consistency and clutch performances.
