University of the East win debut match over guest squad Southwestern U
Ateneo guard Kiefer Ravena goes past the San Sebastian defense in their Filoil Flying V Pre-Season Premier Cup on Wednesday. (FCF / Vyn Radovan)
San Sebastian College, with a completely stripped-down lineup under returning head coach Topex Robinson, tried to play spoilers against 2011 tournament winners Ateneo de Manila University but eventually fell in the endgame via a 75-70 count in Wednesday’s showcase match in the 2013 Filoil Flying V Pre-Season Premier Cup at The Arena in San Juan City.
Despite missing four of seven free throws in last two minutes, the Blue Eagles survive the Stags’ balanced onslaught from two mainstays and two newcomers to gain an early lead in Group B.
Kiefer Ravena carried the scoring cudgels with 19 points and 9 rebounds, while Chris Newsome added 16 points and 4 steals.
Rookie center Bradwyn Guinto, who is seen to fill in the void left by reigning NCAA MVP Ian Sangalang, posted 15 points and 19 rebounds in a losing cause.
In the other Group B affair, a debuting University of the East thumps guest squad Southwestern University, 81-62, to keep the reigning CESAFI champions winless in two games.
Despite missing the services of ex-Arellano University slotman Charles Mammie due to a “disciplinary action” levied on the Cameroonian transferee, UE held their own against the towering Justin Aboude and newcomer Fabrice Siewe.
Four of the five Red Warriors starters posted double figures in scoring, led by guard Roi Sumang who had 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals in the contest.
Monbert Arong led the Cobras with 12 points and 8 rebounds.
Meanwhile, San Beda College bounced back from their opening day loss via a 67-55 victory over NCAA foe Jose Rizal University.
Rome Dela Rosa had 16 points, while Nigerian big man Ola Adeogun contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds.
Ex- Red Lions guard Paolo Pontejos made his debut with the Heavy Bombers, leading all scorers with 18 points in the setback.
In the lone women’s division affair, Far Eastern University downs University of Santo Tomas via a 54-45 count. Camille Sambile tallied 14 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks for the Lady Tams.
