Manila: Ateneo de Manila University advanced to the next round after defeating the University of the Philippines, 94-68, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

According to Philippines News Agency, two-time MVP Kacey dela Rosa led the charge with 22 points, 16 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. Erica de Luna contributed significantly with 16 points and 11 rebounds, boosting the Lady Falcons to an 8-4 win-loss record.

Kai Oani, Camille Malagar, Hannah Lopez, Sandra Villacruz, Gracie Batongbakal, and de Luna worked together to secure a 66-48 lead for Ateneo by the end of the third quarter. Dela Rosa expressed her determination, saying, “My mindset in every game is that I’m tired of the Final Four so I’ll give my best to my seniors to win the championship this year.”

Sarah Makanjuola added 12 points, 13 rebounds, and two blocks, while Kai Oani and Camille Malagar each scored 10 points. Ateneo head coach LA Mumar expressed his satisfaction with the team’s progress, stating, “We’re very thankful that we made it to the Final Four. Obviously, our goal is to win a championship but this is an achievement for the team. Every win, every achievement for the girls we’re very happy, but we want more.”

Ateneo, the No. 3 seed under the traditional Final Four format, will wrap up the elimination round against Adamson University on Sunday.

For the University of the Philippines, Camille Nolasco led with 17 points and five rebounds. Louna Ozar contributed 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals, while Achrissa Maw scored 10 points. UP, with a 3-10 record, will face De La Salle University on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.