Ateneo guard Forthsky Padrigao during a game against FEU in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Forthsky Padrigao produced a stat line worthy of taking up the torch for the Ateneo Blue Eagles.
The shifty guard knocked down a crucial three from way out with 38.5 seconds remaining, helping the Blue Eagles topple the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 79-70, and open the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament with aplomb on Sunday night.
Padrigao actually scored nine of his 19 points in the final quarter and had seven assists, six rebounds and two steals in inheriting the starting point stature following the exodus of SJ Belangel.
Bryan Andrade was likewise comfortable in his new role, sinking 15 points, including five straight in one stretch that put the Eagles ahead by 14 and made life miserable for the Tamaraws.
Lj Gonzales scattered 19 points for the Tamaraws, who went on a 16-0 run late in the first half to keep the Eagles on their toes until the waning minutes of the third period.
The Tamaraws haven’t beaten the Eagles, last year’s losing finalist, since Season 81.
The scores
ATENEO 79 — Padrigao 19, Andrade 15, Ildefonso 14, Kouame 12, Koon 11, Ballungay 3, Daves 2, Chiu 2, Lazaro 1, Gomez 0, Garcia 0, Quitevis 0.
FEU 70 — Gonzales 19, Sleat 17, Sajonia 10, Anonuevo 9, Torres 5, Tchuente 3, Alforque 3, Tempra 2, Sandagon 2, Gravera 0, Celzo 0, Guibao 0, Bagunu 0.
Quarters: 24-16, 30-36, 55-50, 79-70.