The 2026 Asiabasket NSAC continues its knockout stage this Sunday, May 10, with four high-stakes Round of 16 matchups at the UP Varsity Training Center.
NU Bulldogs vs. Arellano Chiefs
The 2–1 NU Bulldogs open the quadruple-header against the 1–2 Arellano Chiefs. NU has begun to find its rhythm, leaning on foreign student-athlete Mohamed Diassana’s inside presence. Carl Maxi Alfanta also erupted for 13 points in their last outing, hitting 3-for-6 from deep. Arellano, meanwhile, continues to rely on steady contributor T-MC Ongotan. But bench production remains a glaring concern for the Chiefs.
Benilde Blazers vs. La Salle Green Archers
The “Battle of Taft” headlines Sunday’s slate. The reigning UAAP Season 88 champions, the La Salle Green Archers, dropped their opener but bounced back with dominant wins. Jacob Cortez and Agjanti Miller anchor the backcourt, while Mason Amos, Luis Pablo, and JC Macalalag provide depth. On the other side, Benilde leans on Allen Liwag, the back-to-back NCAA MVP. Guards Matthew Jucom and Jhomel Ancheta have shown growth, giving the Blazers added firepower.
UST Growling Tigers vs. St. Clare Saints
This matchup heavily favors UST. The Growling Tigers have been dominant, winning three straight even without Collins Akowe, who is sidelined with a minor injury. Kris Porter, foreign student-athlete Peter Osang, Koji Buenaflor, and sophomore Ammiel Acido have all stepped up. St. Clare, still winless, enters the clash searching for its first breakthrough.
UP Fighting Maroons vs. Adamson Soaring Falcons
The undefeated 3–0 UP Fighting Maroons headline the primetime showdown against the 0–3 Adamson Soaring Falcons. Despite their record, Adamson has shown flashes—erasing deficits but faltering late. Noah Pacquiao and Zaheer Rahim Sajili continue to contribute, though Matthew Montebon has struggled. UP, meanwhile, has defended its home court with different players shining each game. Jacob Bayla, Rey Remogat, Gani Stevens, Veejay Pre, and Penn State-bound Andy Gemao have all proven capable of taking over. The Fighting Maroons enter confident in their chances of advancing.
Asiabasket Quarterfinal Picture
Four teams have already booked their spots in the Asiabasket quarterfinals: the Letran Knights, San Beda Red Lions, Ateneo Blue Eagles, and FEU Tamaraws. With four more berths up for grabs, Sunday’s slate will decide the rest of the quarterfinal cast—raising the intensity of the 2026 Asiabasket NSAC even higher.
