MANILA, Philippines — The De La Salle University Green Archers reclaimed the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball championship on Wednesday, completing a dramatic finals series against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. La Salle sealed the title with an 80–72 victory in Game 3 of the best-of-three finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
After splitting the first two games of the series, both teams entered the deciding contest with everything on the line. In a tightly contested battle, the Green Archers ultimately prevailed, capturing the UAAP crown for the first time since losing the title to UP last season.
The win marked La Salle’s 11th men’s basketball championship in UAAP history and capped a season defined by resilience. The Green Archers had to overcome a challenging path to the finals, entering as a lower seed before sweeping top teams in the playoffs to earn their title shot.
La Salle showed grit throughout the game, pulling ahead in key moments down the stretch. UP mounted a late charge — highlighted by Rey Remogat’s 21 points — keeping the contest close into the final minutes. But La Salle held firm to secure the eight-point win.
Star performances came from La Salle’s veterans, with Finals MVP honors going to Mike Phillips, who anchored the Green Archers with an all-around effort. Supporting contributions from Mason Amos and Jacob Cortez helped La Salle maintain control in critical phases of the game.
The championship also extended the growing rivalry between La Salle and UP, marking their third straight UAAP Finals matchup — with seasons alternating titles between the two squads.
The Fighting Maroons, who captured the title in Season 87, fought valiantly but fell short in the decisive game. Despite the loss, UP’s effort further cemented its status as one of the league’s elite programs in recent years.
La Salle’s triumph was celebrated by fans across the country and seen as a redemption story after last year’s finals defeat. The Green Archers now return to the top of UAAP men’s basketball, continuing their rich tradition in collegiate hoops.
