Ateneo turns back Adamson for first Filoil win

FILE PHOTO – Ateneo Blue Eagles vs Adamson Falcons. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Ateneo evaded another upset as it grounded Adamson University, 84-75, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Friday at San Juan Arena.

Despite the absence of head coach Tab Baldwin, who had to fulfill his duties with the Philippine national team, the Blue Eagles took care of business to go up 1-1 after their shock loss to University of the East in the opener.

Forward Kris Porter led the way for Ateneo with 14 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

Ateneo turned the ball over 19 total times, 12 in the first half, which is four more than Adamson did but the Blue Eagles compensated on the defensive end holding the Soaring Falcons to 41 percent shooting overall.

Assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga said they had to focus more on the defensive end since Adamson held the lead, 39-35, at the end of the first half.

“We told the team that we need to improve on that,” said Arespacochaga. “Intensity-wise there was a let-down on defense. That was our main focus, our main thrust.”

“We were very happy that the players responded to the adjustments that we made.”

A slimmed down Mike Nieto also had 14 points and seven rebounds for Ateneo while Vince Tolentino and Thirdy Ravena had 10 points each.

Papi Sarr had a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double for the Falcons, who remained winless at 0-2 under new head coach Franz Pumaren.