Ateneo opens title defense with a huge win

FEU Rookie Pipo Noundou against MVP Al-Hussaini of Ateneo

Rabeh Al-Hussaini proved his worth as the reigning MVP of UAAP men’s basketball after their huge win at the expense of the crowd favorite, FEU Tamaraws in their first meet up in the 72nd UAAP season.

In the early part of the first quarter, FEU seems to be in control of the game as Ateneo struggles for offense. However as the game progresses and until the deadlock at 54 points in the last quarter, Ateneo was in command.

Breaking the deadlock, Al Hussaini made a two point shot over a foul by FEU rookie, Pipo Noundou giving Ateneo a four points gap over the Tamaraws. During the last two minutes, Al Hussaini made a repeat of the shot that broke the deadlock, but was answered immediately by a shot of Aldrech Ramos through Andy Barroca’s assist plus a point by Reil Cervantes off a turnover, thus lessening the gap to two points 61-59 (Ateneo leads) with 22.1 remaining in the time. Ateneo then calls for a time-out.

The game continues as last year’s Rookie of the Year Ryan Buenafe was fouled by Andy Barroca, the Blue Eagle now up by three points. At 13.6 remaining in the game, (ball possession of the Tamaraws) the heavily guarded Barroca passed the ball to rookie RR Garcia, who missed a three point marker in an attempt to send the game into overtime. Al Hussaini sealed the match with a solo free throw.

ADMU 63 – Al Hussaini 18, Buenafe 10, Salva 9, Salamat 8, Monfort 8, Reyes 7, Long 3, Golla 0, Chua 0, Baclao 0, Austria 0.

FEU 59 – Ramos 15, Barroca 12, Noundou 9, Garcia 8, Cervantes 6, Cawaling 4, Sanga 3, Knuttel 2, Exciminiano 0, Eguilos 0, Caluag 0.

Quarters: 17-11, 40-29, 50-47, 63-59.

Notes: In the earlier match, NU won against UP 74-64; a rare win from the Bulldogs, which only managed two wins last season.

FEU’s next game is against the DLSU Green Archers, July 18 at the Big Dome. see basketball schedule