Blue Eagles rise after tragedy

MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo ushered in a new era on a winning note, beating Our Lady of Fatima, 71-60, in the wildcard phase of the 2026 Pinoy Liga Big Dance yesterday at the Blue Eagle Gym.

The Blue Eagles broke away with a decisive 17-5 run to start the fourth quarter, turning a slim 60-57 lead into a comfortable cushion to clinch a spot in the main tournament as the No. 21 seed.

It was Ateneo’s first official game in more than two months since the June 8 tragedy in Dipaculao, Aurora that claimed the lives of Blue Eagles Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

The game also marked the first foray of the embattled program under interim head coach Louie Alas, who took over after four-time champion coach Tab Baldwin resigned in June. Alas is now joined by new assistants and former Letran Knights RJ Jazul and Kerby Raymundo.

“We just praised God for allowing us to play. That’s really it, honestly. And we’re very thankful. Thank you,” said Alas.

Baldwin’s resignation came ahead of the UAAP’s ruling this month. On Aug. 7, the league announced that Ateneo would remain eligible for Season 89 but handed Baldwin a perpetual ban.

The UAAP also indefinitely suspended eight team staff, led by team manager Epok Quimpo, along with assistant coaches and the team’s physical therapist.

The decision allowed Ateneo to return to training camp and resume its preseason build-up in the Pinoy Liga as it tries to pick up the pieces from what remains of its roster and coaching staff.

Ateneo’s last game before yesterday was in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup last June 6, a 72-57 win over Adamson at the Playtime Filoil Centre in San Juan.

Against OLFU, Trevor Roberts led the way with 17 points and seven rebounds, while Kieffer Alas, the youngest son of coach Louie, posted 12 points, five rebounds and two assists.