Winless Ateneo tries to end slide vs Adamson

By Josiah Albelda Posted Jul 15th 2013

Questions abound as winless Ateneo de Manila University faces tough Adamson University in the 76th UAAP men's basketball tournament Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Blue Eagles, seeking a sixth straight championship, have not won a single game this season and are coming off a bitter loss against archrival De La Salle University.

Compounding their woes is the fact that star guard Kiefer Ravena, who has played only eight minutes in the tourney, is still doubtful to play, as his Grade 3 ankle sprain has not yet fully healed.

"We'll see, we'll see," Ravena said when asked if he will suit up against the Soaring Falcons. "Actually, hindi ko pa alam kung ilang percent na akong ready. But I'm doing what I need to to return as soon as possible."

With Ravena out, Ryan Buenafe and Chris Newsome have stepped up for Ateneo, but the duo's attack has not been enough to propel the Eagles to a win.

If Ravena won't play anew, the Katipunan-based squad will have their hands full against Adamson, who possess arguably the best frontcourt in the UAAP today.

Ingrid Sewa and Rodney Brondial have terrorized opponents in the paint, hauling down rebound after rebound as the Falcons have registered the most boards of any team this year.

Swingman Jericho Cruz will also be a headache for coach Bo Perasol as his quickness and skill could be too much for the slow-footed Buenafe.

Adamson is going for its third straight win and has surprised pundits this season with their brand of basketball, but is definitely not taking the five-peat champs lightly.

"Kapag ang isang tao sugatan, mabangis yan," said Falcons coach Leo Austria.

The game will air live on Studio 23, BALLS HD 167 and uaapsports.tv with a same replay at 10 p.m. on BALLS SkyCable channel 34 or Destiny Cable channel 36.