MANILA, Philippines – The Ateneo Blue Eagles dominated the final 10 minutes of their season-opening game against the UST Growling Tigers to come away with the 73-69 victory and begin the UAAP Season 79 men’s basketball tournament with a 1-0 record on Sunday, September 4, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Ateneo, which was up only 52-51 entering the fourth period, was led by the impressive performances of Aaron Black and Thirdy Ravena. Contributions from players like Mike Nieto and Anton Asistio also helped the Blue Eagles create separation against the Growling Tigers.
Aaron, the son of former PBA import Norman Black, finished with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Ravena, the younger brother of former UAAP MVP Kiefer, registered 17 points and 11 boards.
Louie Vigil led UST with 21 points and 9 boards while Jan Macasaet added 12 points and 9 rebounds.
Ateneo opened the fourth quarter on a 7-0 run to go up 8 and didn’t look back the rest of the way. UST trimmed the lead to 5, 71-66, following a pair of Regie Basibas free throws with 54.5 seconds left, but a corner jumper by Black proved to be the dagger. – Rappler.com