Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 10) — The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles thrashed the Adamson Soaring Falcons, 85-65, in their opening match on Saturday evening at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Thirdy Ravena led the way for the Blue Eagles scoring 20 points while grabbing 10 rebounds.
A known jump shooting team, Adamson had a difficult time coverting outside shots (4-of-22 three-point field goals).
A 7-0 blitz by the Falcons cut the deficit to single digit in the payoff period.
But Ateneo had enough firepower to hold off Adamson’s comeback try in the endgame.
“We’re happy that we played well against Adamson,” Blue Eagles assitant coach Sandy Arespacochaga said in the post-game interview.
Big man Chibueze Ikeh contributed 18 points, while Jolo Mendoza added 14 points for Ateneo.
Kurt Lojera led the Soaring Falcons with 11 markers.
