Pasay city: Ateneo de Manila University advanced to the stepladder semifinals after defeating Adamson University, 66-56, in the UAAP Season 88 women's basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Blue Eagles, who last reached the Finals in 2015, are set to face defending champion and No. 2 seed National University (NU) in a knockout match scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. During the elimination rounds, Ateneo faced defeats against NU, losing 79-83 in the first round and 47-69 in the second.
University of Santo Tomas secured the first Finals slot after a flawless 14-0 sweep. Ateneo's Kacey Dela Rosa expressed determination, saying, "I just want to prove to NU that they are not the only ones who can compete at that level, but we can, too. We just pray for that win."
Dela Rosa collaborated with teammates Kate Cancio, Camille Malagar, and Kai Oani in an 11-0 run that gave Ateneo a commanding 65-48 lead with six minutes left in the fourth quarter. Ateneo coach LA Mumar praised Adamson, saying, "Adamson made a run but our defense held up. That's what we talk about. We really admire Adamson. We learn a lot of things from them. They're a very tough and scrappy team. Today, with God's help, we were able to pull through."
Kai Oani and Camille Malagar contributed significantly to the win with 13 and 12 points, respectively, while Sarah Makanjuola added nine points, 16 rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks. For the Lady Falcons, Elaine Etang delivered 18 points, six assists, four rebounds, and three steals, while Kemi Adeshina added 10 points and nine rebounds, securing the last semifinal ticket for Adamson.
