Ateneo Blue Eagles also rebuilding for UAAP juniors

MANILA, Philippines – The senior Blue Eagles aren’t the only Ateneo team undergoing rebuilding. So is the high school squad that is preparing for the upcoming UAAP juniors tournament, which has not been played in three seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, there is only one returning veteran in Lebron Nieto, who three years ago didn’t even see much action.

The Ateneo high school squad lost Forthsky Padrigao, Joshua Lazaro, Francis Lopez, Ian Espinosa, Joaquin Jaymalin, twins Miggy and Gabbie Salvador, Jynno Ladimo, Jazy de Ayre, Daniel David and Sean Corral, who were not able to maximize their playing years due to the pandemic lockdown. 

“To be honest, we need Lady Luck on our side to secure a Final Four spot this season,” admitted head coach Reggie Varilla. “We lack talent and experience but we are trying our best to push our boys to the level where we have to be.”

The pool that Varilla and his coaching staff are working on include guards Nieto, Jordan Salandanan, Javi Adevoso, Fonzie Lumawig, Third Ebdane, Uno Prado, Adolf Cruz, Joaquin Zaballa, Chris Urbina and Renzo Gatmaitan.

The forwards include Joax Fidel, Jotham Santiago, Ritchmon Aguirre, Derek Domangcas, Nathan Asistio, Third Ebdane, Troy de Guzman, TJ delos Santos and Henry Madrangca.

The centers include Gerwyn Arada, Kristian Porter, Danger Tupas and Ranidel de Ocampo Jr.

“I think Nieto, Fidel and Porter are UAAP-ready,” pointed out Varilla. “Domangcas, Salandanan, Adevoso de Guzman, Asistio and Ebdane should give us a lift if they continue to be driven.”

De Ocampo Jr, at 6-foot-6 and only 15 years old, is a project.

“I am very excited for this bunch since the Ateneo allowed for full practices beginning October 12. I think the best way to describe our team is the saying, ‘Maliit man ang alikabok, nakakapuwing din.’”