Sotto’s absence shines light on FEU’s Abarrientos

With Ateneo’s 7-foot-1 center Kai Sotto skipping the tournament, the spotlight is likely to fall on Far Eastern University’s RJ Abarrientos when the 7th Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship Rain or Shine Cup unwraps on Saturday at the SGS gym in Quezon City.

The nephew of PBA great and former FEU star Johnny Abbarientos has been making heads turn in the UAAP high school tournament.

“He’s a joy to watch because of his dazzling moves,” said league chair Terry Que, co-team owner of Rain or Shine in the PBA. “He’s a very good player so we expect him to lead his team to the championship.”

Abarrientos was at his best in the team’s stunning 67-62 overtime win over defending champion Ateneo where he exploded for 28 points, including 12 in overtime.

Also expected to shine are National University’s Terrence Fortea, Gerry Abadiano and Carl Tamayo, UST’s Mark Nonoy and Bismark Lina, and FEU’s Royce Alforque.