The UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament has kicked off with a bang, delivering thrilling games and surprising results. Basketball fans around the country were definitely treated to intense competition and exceptional performances through the first three games. As the teams battle it out on the court, traditional favorites have stumbled, making way for rising performers to shine.
UAAP Men’s Basketball Season 86 Standings*
| TEAM | WINS | LOSSES |
| University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons | 3 | 0 |
| De La Salle University Green Archers | 2 | 1 |
| University of the East Red Warriors | 2 | 1 |
| National University Bulldogs | 2 | 1 |
| Adamson University Soaring Falcons | 2 | 1 |
| Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles | 1 | 2 |
| Far Eastern University Tamaraws | 0 | 3 |
| University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers | 0 | 3 |
These early results have shown that no team can be taken lightly in Season 86. The UP Fighting Maroons have been the standout team so far, maintaining a perfect 3-0 record with impressive victories. The De La Salle Green Archers, the University of the East Red Warriors, and the National University Bulldogs have also showcased their potential with solid performances.
Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses like the Ateneo Blue Eagles, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, and the UST Growling Tigers have struggled to find their rhythm, with the Blue Eagles currently holding a 1-2 record while the Tamaraws and Growling Tigers both hold 0-3 records.
UP looking extremely impressive so far
The UP Fighting Maroons have been a dominant force in the early stages of the season, showing why they are considered one of the favorites. Led by their talented roster, UP clinched three consecutive victories since the season began. Defending MVP Malick Diouf has put in commanding performances so far, averaging 17 points, 15 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. The strong start is building a solid case for a repeat MVP award, as it has been crystal clear that he has powered the Fighting Maroons’ perfect start.
Multiple teams keeping up
DLSU, UE, NU, and Adamson have all performed admirably through the first three games of Round 1, all posting a 2-1 start to Season 86.
Traditional powerhouse DLSU has been excellent so far. If not for a late-game mishap versus archrivals Ateneo, the Green Archers would likely be sharing pole position with UP. Led by the trio of Kevin Quiambao, Evan Nelle, and Mike Phillips, DLSU has flexed their might against FEU and UST with double-digit wins in both games.
National University, in particular, has been bolstered by their first game victory over the defending champion Blue Eagles. They’ve definitely taken a step forward this season, and should be a contender moving forward.
Adamson is probably the surprise team in Round 1, especially in the wake of star player Jerom Lastimosa’s absence. One of their victories came against the defending champions, a thrilling overtime victory courtesy of a game-winning three-pointer from Vince Magbuhos. Their only loss so far has come against the hands of UP, but even that was more of an encouraging effort despite the 68-51 scoreline.
As the first round of UAAP Season 86 concludes on the week of October 22, fans can look forward to more thrilling match-ups and exciting moments in men’s basketball. The competition among these top contenders and the emerging dark horse promises to provide basketball enthusiasts with captivating battles in the coming weeks.
Never miss a beat with Smart
For those eager to catch the action, don’t miss out on watching the live coverage of the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball–as well as the rest of the UAAP games–for free on the Smart Livestream App for all Smart subscribers. With its user-friendly interface and high-quality streaming, the Smart Livestream App ensures that you never miss a moment of the UAAP action. Tune in to witness the intensity, passion, and skill of the country’s top collegiate men’s basketball teams as they vie for the coveted UAAP championship.
* Standings and analysis based on available data as of October 10, 2023
