MANILA, Philippines—Finding several scoring options has eased the pressure on the Ateneo Blue Eagles somewhat.
And the defending champions hope to make the most out of their unpredictable offense anew when the Blue Eagles tangle with the National U Bulldogs in the 73rd UAAP men’s basketball tournament Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Eagles, running third with a 6-2 record, vie for a share of second against the erratic Bulldogs at 4 p.m.
“Our offense is a little more balanced. It’s more difficult to read,” said Ateneo coach Norman Black.
“We’re a bit unpredictable this year as far as who’s going to step up to score for us. It’s unlike the last two years where you know that the ball was going to [former MVP] Rabeh Al-Hussaini.”
La Salle has similarly turned the absence of a go-to guy into an advantage.
The Green Archers, ranked fourth at 5-3, aim to complete an elimination sweep of the University of the Philippines Maroons at 2 p.m.
“What I really like about our team is everyone’s contributing,” said La Salle coach Dindo Pumaren.
“But I always remind them to be consistent, because in our last game (against NU) we didn’t execute well in the first half.”
Idle Far Eastern University remains solo on top at 8-1, just a game ahead of streaking Adamson’s 7-2 slate.
The Eagles, relying mostly on their backcourt veterans led by Kirk Long, Eric Salamat and Emman Monfort, aim for a repeat of their 82-65 blasting of the Bulldogs last July 31.
“Our defense is becoming more solid every game,” noted Black.
The Bulldogs, holding a 3-5 card, have to do without Glenn Khobuntin, the rookie standout suspended for one game after incurring two unsportsmanlike fouls.
The winless Maroons will also miss veteran swingman Alvin Padilla, who will serve a one-game suspension for the same offense.
The Archers routed the Maroons, 80-62, in the season opener last July 10.
In juniors action, the unbeaten Blue Eaglets picked up their 10th straight victory against the Baby Falcons, 79-66, late Tuesday at the FilOil-Flying V Arena.
Kiefer Ravena posted a triple-double of 22 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the Blue Eaglets, who are vying for a third straight championship just like their senior counterparts.
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