Ateneo wards off NU to tighten grip on top spot

Ateneo Blue Eagles’ Anton Asistio dribbles against NU Bulldogs. Ateneo stays undefeated in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball. ARVIN LIM FOR ABS-CBN SPORTS

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BY ADRIAN STEWART CO
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Friday, October 20, 2017
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MANILA – Ateneo Blue Eagles found its shooting touch in the second half to defeat National University Bulldogs 85-72 in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball.

The victory allowed Blue Eagles to keep its slate clean (9-0), hold on to the top spot and get assured of at least a playoff for a Final 4 spot.

Ilonggo Ferdinand “Thirdy” Ravena III led the way with 15 points, eight rebounds, two steals, and two blocks while Matthew Nieto and Jolo Mendoza had 10 points each for Blue Eagles.

Trailing 45-48 at the half on Wednesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Blue Eagles went toe to toe with Bulldogs in the third quarter behind Ravena, Nieto and rookie center Gian Mamuyac to snatch a 67-65 lead heading into fourth.

Blue Eagles continued its torrid shooting in the final quarter courtesy of Ravena, Mamuyac, Tyler Tio, and Raffy Verano to build a 79-68 advantage with over five minutes left in the match.

Not only did it find its shooting form, Blue Eagles also tightened its defense in the final frame, limiting Bulldogs to just 7 points in the quarter, mostly when the game was beyond reach.

“NU played hard. They came up with a game plan,” said Blue Eagles assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga.

“At the half, we emphasized our lack of defense and we came up with a better showing in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter,” he added.

Rodolfo Alejandro finished with 22 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals while rookie Enzo Joson added 11 markers for Bulldogs, which dropped to 3-6./PN
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