With Thirdy Ravena continuing his stellar play, Ateneo turned back University of the East, 83-65, on Sunday to stay unbeaten in UAAP Season 80 basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Sustaining his fiery form, Ravena poured 21 points, including 11 in the final period, as the Blue Eagles notched their fourth win in as many games to solidify their hold of top spot, a day after fierce rival La Salle suffered its first loss of the season.
Ravena’s impressive form is simply the icing to what has been an inspiring start to the season for the Eagles, who have won all their games by double digit margins.
Ateneo assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga liked the consistency from the Eagles after they responded with a show of force in the final period.
“I think more or less, even though we’ve had ups and downs in this game, we’re happy with the consistency,” said Arespacochaga.
Much like their first three games, the Eagles established control early before taking the fight out of the Warriors with another blistering finish anchored by Ravena, whose athleticism and polished offensive arsenal has keyed the early-season surge.
“I need to stay more consistent than last season,” said Ravena, who spiked his scoring average to 18.7 points per game.
“Last season, I’ll have a good game then the next game, polar opposite. I’m just mentally focused coming into the season.”
The Warriors stayed in the thick of the fight after exploding for 29 points in the third period that allowed them to close in at 52-60.
Later, Papi Sarr threw his weight around inside the paint, while Jerie Pingoy sparkled on both ends of the floor as Adamson rolled past National U, 83-76, to even its card at 2-2, tying FEU and NU for fourth spot.
Matt Nieto, Aaron Black and Mike Nieto also dished out double-digit outputs, combining for 31 points for the Eagles, who face University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday.
ATENEO 83—Ravena 21, Nieto Ma. 11, Black 10, Nieto Mi. 10, Tolentino 9, Asistio 8, Verano 4, Porter 3, Ikeh 2, Go 2, Mendoza 2, Tio 1, White 0, Mallillin 0, Mamuyac 0, Andrade 0.
UE 65—Pasaol 22, Abanto 10, Maloles 9, Derige 6, Acuno 5, Bartolome 4, Olayon 4, Conner 3, Varilla 2, Manalang 0, Cullar 0, Armenion 0, Gagate 0.
Quarters: 18-11, 32-23, 60-52, 83-65