TWO-TIME champion Judiciary and Philippine International Global Trading clash in a virtual do-or-die for the fourth semis berth at the close of the quarterfinal round of the 8th UNTV Cup on Sunday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
With both teams carrying similar 6-5 win-loss records, expect intense action in their 5 p.m. encounter as they chase the last semis spot in the annual tournament organized by UNTV President and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon for public servants.
The winner, however, will have a difficult task of beating top seed and defending champion Armed Forces of the Philippines in the semis which is a best-of-three affair.
Department of Agriculture can tie the winner in the Judiciary-PITC showdown if it beats National Housing Authority at 3:30 p.m. as it also holds a 6-5 record.
But the Food Masters can not in any way dislodge whoever will emerge the winner in the PITC-Judiciary tiff due to an inferior goal difference.
NHA has already clinched the third semis after downing the PITC Global Traders, 77-74, last week.
The NHA Builders will face the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Warriors in the other semis pairing.
The AFP Cavaliers and the Warriors advanced outright to the semis after finishing 1-2 in the two-phase elimination round.
The chosen charity of the champion team will get the tax-free P4 million top prize while the runner-up’s own charity shall receive P2 million.
Games Sunday (Paco Arena)
3:30 p.m. – NHA vs Agriculture
5 p.m. – PITC vs Judiciary