Ladi's Late Three Propels Ateneo to Narrow Victory Over UE in UAAP Season 88

In a tightly contested UAAP Season 88 men's basketball matchup, Kymani Ladi's crucial three-pointer in the final moments helped the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles edge out the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 62-60. The game took place on Wednesday, September 24, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

With only 22.7 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, Ladi nailed a decisive triple to give Ateneo a 61-60 advantage. He finished the game with a double-double, contributing 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Blue Eagles showcased solid defense down the stretch as Dominic Escobar intercepted a pass from UE's Nico Mulingtapang and later sank one of two free throws. Meanwhile, Ladi prevented Precious Momowei from scoring a last-second three-pointer as the clock expired.

Other notable performers for Ateneo included Joaqui Espina, who scored 17 points with two assists, and Jared Bahay, who added eight points and six boards. This victory puts Ateneo at the top of the standings with a 2-0 win-loss record, while UE remains winless as they continue to search for their initial triumph this season.

Leading UE’s effort was Welo Lingolingo, who tallied 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds.

Looking ahead, Ateneo is set to face the Adamson University Soaring Falcons on September 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. On the same day, UE will take on the defending champions, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.