Ateneo finds a leader in Vince Tolentino

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

For a team in dire need of leaders, the emergence of Vince Tolentino as someone who can be counted on is a welcome sign for Ateneo.

And on Sunday, the forward did just that, collecting 15 points, four rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block in 22 minutes off the bench to help the Blue Eagles to a 66-54 win in the battle for third match against National University.

“I have to give it to my teammates, they always believe in us,” Tolentino said. “We stayed together and that’s the main key for us as a team. When we play individually, we can’t win basketball games. They were finding me, and as always, there is a different leading scorer for us, and today, it was me and I’m just blessed to be in that position.”

The 6-foot-3 senior showed that he’s more than just a defensive asset, showing his range as well as his intensity to fend off the Bulldogs.

And for Ateneo assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga, he’s not surprised that Tolentino is finally making his potential come to reality as he notes the forward as one of the team’s most hardworking players.

“It’s no coincidence. He’s one of our hardest workers, one of the guys who has a great attitude, and I think he’s one of our leaders in our team in terms of our philosophy and our vision,” he said. “Vince has been a big help, along with the other veterans, in leading this young team.”

But for Tolentino, it’s a matter of making the most out of the opportunities given to them, with Ateneo losing a lot of firepower with the graduation of Kiefer Ravena and Von Pessumal.

“They were my leaders and I learned a lot from them,” he said. “I’m thankful for this opportunity. Though it’s a time to rebuild, I’m here as one of the team’s seniors. Whatever opportunity comes my way, I’m going to continue working hard and hope that I’ll still be blessed with opportunities.”/rga