Photo By Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Ateneo gave undefeated 3D Global Sports of Canada a scare before falling, 86-78, in the 2018 William Jones Cup at Xinzhuang Gymnasium in Taiwan.
The Blue Eagles just came up short in their comeback bid where they rallied from 27 points down in the first half.
Led by guard Matt Nieto and Thirdy Ravena, Ateneo pulled to within six twice in the final one minute and 15 seconds.
The Eagles, however, just didn’t have enough time left complete their comeback as the Canadians improved to 4-0 in the nine-team tournament.
Nieto scored a game-high 18 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field while Ravena added 12 points, six rebounds and two blocks.
Ateneo suffered its second straight loss after opening its campaign with a stunning win over Chinese Taipei-White, 87-64, on Sunday.
Canada had five players in double figures led by Shaquille Keith’s 18 points on top of seven rebounds and five assists.
Ateneo plays Japan next on Wednesday then, Indonesia on Thursday.