MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) The Ateneo Blue Eagles and the University of Sto. Tomas Growling Tigers prevailed over their respective foes in the opening day of the 2011 Filoil Flying V Preseason Premiere Cup Saturday.
The Eagles prevailed over the San Beda Red Lions, getting a boost from its rookie Kiefer Ravena who capped his game-long brilliance with stellar plays down the stretch to lift his team, 90-87, before a jampacked crowd at the Arena in San Juan.
Meanwhile, the Growling Tigers weathered a late rally by the La Salle Green Archers to hack out a 79-70 win in the second game.
“I think his game speaks for itself,” marveled Ateneo coach Norman Black of his prized recruit. “He continues to amaze people with the way he plays.”
The five-foot-11 Ravena finished with 25 points on 11-of-14 shooting from the field and collected three rebounds, four assists and two steals.
“At the start I was really nervous, good thing coach Norman gave me the opportunity to help the team win tonight,” said Ravena.
Greg Slaughter shone as well for Ateneo with 26 points but only had two rebounds despite his towering presence at six-foot-nine.
Veteran big man Melo Afuang came through with 19 points and nine rebounds for the Growling Tigers.
UST led by as much as 16 before its sweet shooting turned sour that allowed La Salle to get back in to the game.
Rookie Kevin Ferrer chipped in with 14 points which included a timely triple that iced the game.