Ateneo to come out aggressive vs Adamson

By Josiah Albelda Posted Jul 13th 2014

Memories of a failed season still lingers in Kiefer Ravena's head.

And the moment he gets the opportunity to erase it, expect the star Ateneo de Manila University guard to take it right away.

Ravena and the Blue Eagles debut in the 77th UAAP men's basketball tournament against rookie-laden Adamson University Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Almost a year removed from a campaign that saw them miss the Final Four for the first time in more than a decade, Ateneo gets a fresh start, this time parading some blue-chip recruits.

"Aggressiveness is the key," said Ravena. "I think we have the same game plan as Adamson, which is to run."

With Ravena, his younger brother Thirdy, and Chris Newsome, the Eagles possess an athletic trio that is very dangerous on the open court.

"Whoever is more aggressive, they will get more opportunities to run," he added.

Aside from Thirdy, Ateneo will also unveil sought-after rookie and many-time NCAA champion Arvin Tolentino, who is expected to provide brawn in the middle for the Katipunan cagers.

Meanwhile, the Soaring Falcons will virtually sport a new-look, with only five holdovers from coach Leo Austria's team last season.

Even Austria is gone, with former PBA MVP Kenneth Duremdes now manning the sidelines for the San Marcelino-based squad.

Vastly-improved Don Trollano will spearhead the Falcons' attack, together with veterans Ryan Monteclaro and Jansen Rios.

The game will air live at 2 p.m. on ABS-CBN Sports+Action channel 23, BALLS HD SkyCable 167, uaapsports.tv, iwantv.com, TFC Bro and tfc.tv with a same day replay at 8 p.m. on BALLS SkyCable channel 34/ Destiny Cable channel 36.