MANILA, Philippines -- Kiefer Ravena played as facilitator early on but took over when Ateneo needed him down the stretch.
Ravena scored 12 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Blue Eagles to a thrilling 81-78 victory over Far Eastern University in the UAAP Season 77 men's basketball tourney at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday.
"We should have been able to finish better. But it's still a win for us. Kiefer delivered in crunchtime," said ADMU Coach Bo Perasol.
Ravena also added seven assists while Chris Newsome and Von Pessumal chipped in 17 and 12 markers, respectively, for the Blue Eagles who have improved their record to 4-1 good for solo second spot in the standings.
"I really wanted to involve teammates today. All the credit goes to them. I'm just here to create. I have to learn to facilitate more," said Ravena.
Mac Belo scored on a putback to rallt FEU by only two, 66-68 at the 3:02 mark but Ravena went on a personal 7-0 run scoring on a step back jumper, face-up three pointer and knocked down two free throws to give ADMU a 75-66 lead with 1:15 left remaining.
FEU did not give up without a fight quickly countering with a 6-0 zip capped by a Francis Tamsi to cut the deficit to three, 72-75 with 28.4 ticks left.
Ateneo held on to the win with clutch free throws from Nico Elorde and Ravena down the stretch while Mike Tolomia missed a potential game-tying triple at the buzzer for the final score.
Belo topscored for the Tamaraws with 22 points while Mike Tolomia and Anthony Hargrove added in 15 and 13 points, respectively.
FEU dropped to a 3-2 win-loss card.