Your Complete Guide to the UAAP Season 85 Basketball Schedule and Match Dates

As a longtime follower of collegiate basketball in the Philippines, I’ve always looked forward to the UAAP season—it’s where future stars emerge and rivalries ignite. This year, UAAP Season 85 promises to deliver another thrilling basketball spectacle, packed with high-stakes matchups and unforgettable moments. I’ve spent the past few weeks digging into schedules, team updates, and player movements, and I’m excited to walk you through everything you need to know about the upcoming games. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this guide will help you mark your calendar and get ready for tip-off.

Let’s start with the basics. The UAAP Season 85 basketball tournament is scheduled to kick off on October 1, 2022, with the men’s division games taking the spotlight first. The preliminary round will run through November, featuring a double-round robin format where each of the eight teams plays every other team twice. That means a total of 56 elimination games before we even get to the Final Four. I’ve always admired how this format ensures fairness—no team can complain about an unbalanced schedule. The women’s and juniors’ divisions will follow a similar timeline, with their own sets of exciting clashes. Venues will primarily include the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the Mall of Asia Arena, both iconic settings that amplify the electric atmosphere of UAAP games. From my experience, watching a live game at MOA Arena, especially during a La Salle-Ateneo showdown, is an absolute must—the energy is just unreal.

Now, you might wonder how teams are shaping up ahead of the season. One development that caught my eye involves a talented player, Estil, who recently made headlines. During last week’s Media Day, Estil admitted that he had already secured his release papers from the MPBL team Pampanga Giant Lanterns. This move signals his readiness to commit fully to his UAAP squad, and I believe it could be a game-changer for his team’s campaign. Having followed Estil’s journey, I’ve seen how his versatility on both ends of the court can turn the tide in close matches. His transition from the MPBL—a league known for its physicality—to the UAAP’s fast-paced environment should give his team an edge, especially in crucial matchups. Frankly, I think this kind of player movement adds an intriguing layer to the season, as experienced athletes like Estil bring maturity and composure that can elevate entire rosters.

Looking at the schedule, certain dates stand out as potential blockbusters. The first round of men’s games will run from October 1 to October 23, with each team playing seven matches. Key rivalries, such as Ateneo vs. La Salle, are tentatively set for October 9 and November 6—mark those in bold if you’re like me and live for these showdowns! The second round follows from October 26 to November 20, leading into the semifinals around November 23-27. If the past seasons are any indication, we can expect at least three to four overtime thrillers during the eliminations alone. I still remember Season 84’s nail-biter between UP and FEU that went into double overtime—it’s moments like these that make UAAP basketball so addictive.

Beyond the men’s division, the women’s games deserve equal attention. NU’s women’s team, for instance, has been dominant in recent years, and I won’t be surprised if they clinch another title. Their schedule runs parallel to the men’s, with high-profile games often scheduled as double-headers. For families or fans looking to make a day of it, these double-headers offer great value and non-stop action. Also, don’t overlook the juniors’ division—it’s a breeding ground for future UAAP stars, and catching their games early gives you bragging rights when they make it big.

As we approach the business end of the season, the Final Four is slated for late November, followed by the best-of-three Finals series in early December. Based on historical data, the top two teams after the eliminations have a 65% chance of advancing to the Finals—though upsets are always possible. I’ve always had a soft spot for underdog stories, like when UE made a surprise run a few seasons back. This year, with player movements like Estil’s and the usual mix of veteran and rookie talent, I’m predicting a more unpredictable race. My personal bet? Ateneo and UP will likely dominate, but watch out for dark horses like FEU or a resurgent UST.

In wrapping up, UAAP Season 85 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory. From the detailed schedule to strategic player acquisitions, every element points toward a fiercely competitive tournament. As someone who’s attended games for over a decade, I can’t stress enough how important it is to plan ahead—secure your tickets early, especially for rivalry games, because they sell out fast. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or streaming from home, this season promises to deliver drama, skill, and pure passion. Let’s get ready to witness the next chapter of Philippine collegiate basketball history together.