NU, UP vie for top 2 twice-to-beat advantage in UAAP Season 88

The National University (NU) Bulldogs and University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons are in a tight race for the top two spots and the twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament playoffs.

NU, with an 8-2 win-loss record, will face the Adamson Soaring Falcons, while UP, holding a 7-3 record, is set to play the winless University of the East (UE) Red Warriors.

Both teams have practically locked up Final Four berths, but are chasing the twice-to-beat privilege.

The La Salle Green Archers are in third place with a 6-4 record, with Adamson, Ateneo, and Santo Tomas following closely behind.

NU coach Jeff Napa stressed the importance of his team remaining focused and not becoming complacent, stating he is "pleased, but not too much-because I know I still have a mission for them."

The Bulldogs narrowly defeated the Falcons, 56-54, in the first round and have since strung up two consecutive wins.

Adamson needs a win in their remaining matches to stay in the Final Four race, as they are currently tied at fourth with UST and Ateneo.