Ateneo, Adamson brace for tough foes
ATENEO De Manila University and Adamson University will clash against formidable foes in Far Eastern University (FEU) and De La Salle University, respectively, in Season 81 University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball today at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Blue Eagles face the Tamaraws at 4 p.m. while the Soaring Falcons meet the Green Archers at 2 p.m.
Ateneo ( 6- 2) reclaimed the lead in the eight- team standings after beating University of the Philippines, 83- 66, on Sunday.
“It’s important for us to come out strong in the second round,” said assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga.
However, Ateneo will likely miss the services of last season’s finals MVP Thirdy Ravena. According to reports, the UAAP board has upgraded a warning to an unsportsmanlike foul citation on Ravena’s closed fist hit on UP’s Paul Desiderio, resulting in a one-game suspension.
With Ravena out, the Eagles are expected to lean on Ivorian center Angelo Kouame along with veterans Anton Asistio and Raffy Verano. Arespacochaga is also hoping that the Nieto twins Matt and Mike, will finally be back from injuries.
FEU is also set to miss seasoned forward Arvin Tolentino, who reportedly will serve a two- game suspension. Tolentino was meted out his second disqualifying foul after an above the shoulder hit on Zachy Huang in the closing seconds of their 70- 78 defeat to University of Sto. Tomas on Sunday.
The setback sent coach Olsen Racela’s erstwhile leading Tamaraws down to No. 3 with a 5-3 slate snapping their three- game winning streak.
The Morayta- based cagers want a repeat of their 63- 60 upset in the first round of the defending champion from Katipunan.
Meanwhile, Adamson (6-2) regained a share of the top spot after snapping a two- game skid at the expense of National University, 69-58, last Wednesday.
Besides establishing a streak anew, the Falcons want to avenge their 78-79 overtime loss to the Archers last week.
La Salle though is seeking to stretch their two- game winning run highlighted by a 79-59 thrashing of University of the East on Wednesday.