In a remarkable start to the season, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws are off to their best beginning in over ten years. Currently holding the top spot in the UAAP men's basketball league, the Tamaraws are set to face the revamped Ateneo Blue Eagles in what promises to be an exciting matchup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today.
Historically, the Tamaraws last enjoyed such a strong start back in 2015, a year that also marked their last championship victory. Their winning momentum, however, was briefly interrupted in their season opener against Adamson, where they faced a narrow 56-53 defeat. Following that setback, the team has rallied spectacularly, notching three consecutive wins that include impressive victories over the defending champions, La Salle, and five-time finalists, the University of the Philippines, bringing their record to 3-1.
The upcoming game against Ateneo is the highlight of a double-header, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., with an earlier game featuring National University facing the University of Santo Tomas at 3 p.m. Currently, both NU and Ateneo are closely pursuing FEU, lying in a three-way tie for second place with La Salle, each holding a record of 3-2.
Despite their strong showing, the Tamaraws remain hungry for more. They are not only looking to clinch their first title in 11 years but are also eager to break a three-year drought from the Final Four, after finishing last season in fifth place. Head coach Sean Chambers, a legendary player-turned-coach from the PBA, has emphasized a culture of continuous improvement among his players. He articulated this sentiment in the locker room, noting, "Good enough, never is. This is good, but this is not where we want to be at the end."
Key players for the Tamaraws include Kirby Mongcopa, an early contender for the league’s Most Valuable Player, and reigning MVP Janrey Pasaol, both of whom are expected to deliver outstanding performances as the team seeks to maintain its top position in the league.