Ateneo eyes lead vs SSC; 3 teams make debut

Three more teams make their debuts even as Ateneo targets its second straight victory in the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup today.

The Eagles, buoyed by an opening-day win over Southwestern U, shoot for the solo lead against San Sebastian, which will be without the stars that have propelled the Stags to great heights in the last four seasons, at 4:15 p.m.

Ateneo proved it can handle the departure of big men Greg Slaughter, Nico Salva and Justin Chua by leaning on another solid game from Kiefer Ravena in the 77-72 win over Southwestern U last Saturday.

It remains to be seen, however, how the Stags can cope without former stalwarts Calvin Abueva, Ian Sangalang and Ronald Pascual, as well as reserves Mike Miranda, Lyle Antipursto and Dexter Maiquez.

Jose Rizal U tests its rookie-laden team against a San Beda squad looking to rebound from an opening-day loss at 12:45 p.m.

University of the East also opens its pre season campaign against Southwestern U in the 2:20 p.m. tussle.

The juniors competition likewise tips off at the Arena with UST taking on Letran at 9 a.m. and the women’s squads of UST and FEU tangling at 10:45 a.m.