Green Archers eye Final Four berth

Games Today (Mall of Asia Arena) 2 p.m. – UE vs La Salle 4 p.m. – UST vs Adamson

University of the East (UE) star Alvin Pasaol played the game of his life three weeks ago when he torched defending champion La Salle with 49 points.

Pasaol should not expect to have such explosion today, however, when reigning MVP Ben Mbala and the peaking Green Archers shoot for a Final Four berth against the Red Warriors in UAAP Season 80 basketball at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Tip off is at 2 p.m., with La Salle out to repeat a 106-100 victory over UE last Oct. 4, stretch its winning streak to four, firm up its grip on second spot and join archrival Ateneo in the semifinal round.

Achieving such goals is easier said than done for the Green Archers though since the Red Warriors are also eager to sustain their resurgence after winning three of their last four matches and staying in playoff contention.

All eyes will be on the 6-foot-3 Pasaol, who has been on a tear following his jawdropping offensive brilliance against one of the most tenacious defensive squads in the league thriving on what is famously known as the “Mayhem” defense.

“I’m expecting La Salle to play tougher defense and we’re expecting Mbala to defend him,” said UE coach Derrick Pumaren, reminding Pasaol to brace himself for a tough grind after averaging 29.2 points in their last five games.

“I’m sure they will work on trying to stop Alvin. Probably they’re thinking if they stop Alvin, they’ll stop UE. I’m sure there’s a lot of pride at stake dahil he got his record of 49 against them.”