Philippines turns to Ateneo Blue Eagles for Jones Cup

MANILA, Philippines — Reigning UAAP men’s basketball champions Ateneo de Manila University will get to test their mettle against select clubs and national squads while representing the country later this July.

The Blue Eagles are set to be the country's representatives to the 40th William Jones Cup. The tournament will begin on July 14 at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City, Taiwan.

This will be the first time in a long while that the country is sending over a collegiate team to the invitational tournament.

The team's chief tactician will be Tab Baldwin. Composing his staff are Sandy Arespacochaga, Gene Afable, Gabby Severino, Yuri Escueta, Ford Arao, Alton Lister and Jon Jacinto.

The final lineup is yet to be determined as the Jones Cup has yet to announce the allowable number of players per team.

"We wish the Ateneo Blue Eagles good luck in this endeavor. They will be representing our country to the best of their will," said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Sonny Barrios.

The team will be backed by Chooks-to-Go.

"Of course, we are elated that are brand will be supporting this team. We will do our best to support the Blue Eagles in this journey because we know that the pressure of joining a tournament like this will bring a lot of pressure to these young men," said Bounty Agro Ventures Inc. President Ronald Mascariñas.

Last year, the Chooks-to-Go-backed Gilas Cadets finished in fourth place in the 10-nation meet, finishing with a 6-3 record.

The Philippines has won the tournament five times. The last time the country topped the Jones Cup table was back in 2016 with the import-laden Mighty Sports-Philippines.