UP eyes revenge vs UST to strengthen hold on 2nd place

The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons are seeking revenge against the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament to solidify their hold on second place.

A win would give UP a stronger position for a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four, as they are currently second in the standings with a 6-3 record, behind leader National University (8-2).

UP aims to create separation from rivals De La Salle University (6-4) and UST (5-4) in the tightly contested race for the top two seeds.

The Maroons are looking to bounce back from their opening day loss to the Growling Tigers, where they were defeated 87-67 at UST's home court.

Playing on a neutral venue this time, UP is optimistic about a different outcome, especially after winning four of their last six games following a slow 0-2 start.

In another game, Ateneo (4-5) will try to end a five-game losing streak against the winless University of the East (0-9), who will have Wello Lingolingo back from suspension.