Ateneo returns to Filoil action with drubbing of Letran

CJ Perez drives against two Letran defenders. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Ateneo easily shrugged off its rusty wings and swooped down on the struggling Letran, 66-53, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Thursday at San Juan Arena.

Defense was the name of the game for the Blue Eagles as they held the Knights to a disastrous 30 percent shooting, 21-of-70, while they converted on a fairly decent 39 percent clip, 26-of-66.

Ateneo is coming off a 20-day break as the players focused on their final examinations at Ateneo.

Blue Eagles Assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga said he wanted more consistency from his team who played their first game after more than three weeks.

“Good win for us, there are a couple of things we wanted to see from our team,” said Arespacochaga. “We’re looking for consistency on the defensive end and we need to pick it up every game.”

“Because we’re building up for the UAAP.”

Thirdy Ravena led the Blue Eagles, who improved to 2-1, with 10 points while CJ Perez had a eight points and eight boards.

Rey Nambatac had a 22-point, 11-rebound double-double for the the Knights, who absorbed their third loss against two wins.