MANILA, Philippines — Despite losing five key players, including the sensational Thirdy Ravena, Ateneo remains deadly as ever as it seeks back-to-back titles in the National Collegiate Championships.
Ateneo, which made a historic 16-game sweep en route to the 82nd UAAP title, also lost Matt and Mike Nieto, Adrian Wong and Isaac Go, who have all exhausted their playing eligibilities.
The 6-foot-7 Go emerged as top PBA draft pick, while Ravena is studying offers to play abroad.
The Blue Eagles frustrated the San Beda Red Lions in last year’s finals but its new lineup will be tested against the likes of reigning NCAA champion Letran, UAAP runner-up UST and NCAA runner-up San Beda for the UAAP/NCAA Challenge starting Feb. 8-9 and Feb. 15 at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
More popularly known as the Philippine Collegiate Champions League, the champion will be awarded the President’s Cup from Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the M.V. P. Trophy from Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
A highly-disciplined team under the tutelage of coach Tab Baldwin, Ateneo will parade Fil-American forward Dwight Ramos, who is a member of the Gilas national training pool.
Others expected to step up for Ateneo are Gian Mamuyac, William Navarro, SJ Belangel, Tyler Tio and African standout Angelo Kouame.
Don Honorio Ventura State U bested five teams from Pangasinan, Baguio, Vigan, Dagupan and Pampanga to lead the Luzon Regional Championship, along with Diliman College, UAAP third placer University of the Philippines and the Bicol champion. The Luzon regionals will be held on Feb. 9-12 at the Jesse Robredo Coliseum in Naga City.
Powerhouses Southwestern University and University of Visayas banner the Vis-Min group plus other qualifiers.
The UAAP/NCAA champion and runnerup and the Luzon and the Vis-Min titlists will collide in the Final Four in Davao City on Feb. 22-23.