Another UAAP powerhouse stands in the way of Fil-Am Nation Select-USA’s ascent to the mountaintop in the 2024 Smart-NBTC National Finals presented by SM Supermalls.
The Fil-Americans will have to navigate through UAAP champion Adamson High School for a historic Philippine national under-19 basketball championship after both teams secured close wins separately on Friday inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Fil-Am Nation Select held off league darling Batang Tiaong, 81-72, to secure its second straight finals appearance.
Terrence Hill continued to be a stable force with 18 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, receiving ample support from Andy Gemao, who contributed 15 points and five rebounds, and Jacob Bayla, who added 12 points of his own.
Meanwhile, the Baby Falcons soared higher and narrowly escaped Mapua High School’s grasp, 70-65, earning a shot at building on their breakthrough UAAP title win just a month ago.
John Ray Abayon led the charge with 19 points and eight rebounds, with Justine Garcia and Vince Reyes chipping in 14 points each.
Adamson and the Fil-Ams will clash on Sunday at the same venue for the throne recently vacated by three-time champion National University-Nazareth School.
Last year, the Bullpups defeated Fil-Am Nation Select in the final, making this Adamson’s first appearance in the Division 1 championship round.
Before the Division 1 and 2 Finals, the NBTC will showcase the best young Filipino talent on All-Star Saturday, featuring the adidas-NBTC All-Star Events and the Manila Live Girls All-Star Game, and the Manila Showcase.
