Ateneo turns back Perpetual, clinches Filoil semis berth

Ateneo’s Chibueze Ikeh. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Ateneo used a fourth quarter run to pull away from Perpetual Help, 68-59, and clinch a semifinals slot in the 2016 Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Tuesday at San Juan Arena.

The Blue Eagles went on a 10-2 spurt, building a 61-52 lead they never relinquished.

Ateneo coach Sandy Arespacochaga commended his players effort especially on the defensive end, particularly in the fourth period where the Altas had to bleed for their points.

“We emphasized our defensive mentality. We challenged them defensively if they can step it up,” Arespacochaga said. “We also shot better from the field and foul line in the second half. Those were positive steps towards improving something that we’re doing poorly in the first half.”

“We challenged our players especially in the fourth quarter to come up with defensive stops and we’re very happy that our players pushed through.”

Adrian Wong had 13 points and five assists while Chi Ikeh, who grabbed eight rebounds, and Anton Asistio scored 12 apiece for Ateneo.

The Eagles will face the winner between La Salle and Far Eastern University in the knockout semis on Friday.

Bright Akhuetie posted a double-double with 15 points and 15 rebounds while Flash Sadiwa and Prince Eze chipped in nine points each for the Altas, who were held to just 32 percent from the field, including a 1-of-16 clip from the three-point area.

Ateneo consultant Tab Baldwin attended the game but he left the venue before the final buzzer to fulfill his commitments with the national team, which is scheduled for a closed-door tuneup game against Iran at 3 p.m. at the nearby Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong City.