San Beda, Ateneo Wow Iloilo Crowd

What a way to kick off the famous Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo.

Last January 17, a charity game was held in Iloilo City that featured reigning four-peat NCAA champion San Beda and former five-peat UAAP king Ateneo at the packed University of San Agustin gym. Although the event was put together in no more than two weeks before the target date, tickets were sold out in just days. The sports-loving people of Iloilo City would not miss the rare chance of seeing two collegiate basketball giants colliding before their very eyes.

And the Blue Eagles and Red Lions certainly did not disappoint. They battled to a sizzling 40-minute explosive game that San Beda won, 106-104.

King Blue Eagle Kiefer Ravena was prepared to put on a show in the home province of his father Bong. He was, after all, the most recognized personality among all the participants. After the first half, the Sinag Pilipinas ace guard already tallied 18 markers. He was unstoppable with his fade away jumpers, “contra-tiempo” penetrations, and sharp three-point sniping. The home crowd was so thunderstruck with Kiefer’s astonishing hoops skills. As expected, he led all scorers after the match, finishing with 28 points.

San Beda’s hulking Nigerian center Ola Adeogun was also a big hit. As soon as he entered the gym, the crowd was already enthralled with his imposing presence. And as soon as he saw action, Iloilo City came to know part of the reason why the Red Lions continue to rule the NCAA. The 6’8” Lagos native was a monster in the game. Ateneo’s two African recruits, both also hailing from Nigeria – Chibueze Ikeh and Kingsley Ewenike – alternated on shackling Adeogun but he still imposed his will inside the paint. But what really brought the house down were two of his emphatic slams. One was an in-your-face jam that almost snapped the backboard off a fast break play. The other was a 180-degree dunk that sent the fans into a frenzy. Ola amassed 24 points and 12 boards.

Many personalities from both camps think that Ravena and San Beda star Baser Amer draw out the best from each other. The two topnotch guards have been rivals since their high school days. But off the court, they are best buddies. Amer is like an adopted family member of the Ravenas. He spends days in the Ravena residence occasionally. read the rest of the story here

source: CJR, Yahoo Sports

photo: CJR, Yahoo Sports