Ateneo Blue Eagles Defying Expectations in UAAP Season 86
After a slow start in UAAP Season 86, the underdog Ateneo Blue Eagles are gaining momentum and keeping their confidence high as they aim for the Final Four.
Embracing Their Identity
Despite their 3-6 record and no wins against the top four teams, the Ateneo Blue Eagles are showing resilience. They recently pushed the undefeated UST Golden Tigresses to five sets and have been competitive in their losses.
Libero captain Roma Mae Doromal highlighted the team’s newfound motivation, stating, “We’ve embraced our respective roles. This is the real Ateneo, this is how we really play.”
Key Players Leading the Charge
Ateneo has identified their top attacking trio in Lyann de Guzman, Sobe Buena, and Zel Tsunashima. Doromal’s solid defense has also been crucial for the team.
Against UP, Tsunashima stepped up with a game-high 16 points to secure a victory for the Eagles.
Looking Ahead
With five games remaining in the elimination round, Ateneo is still in contention for a spot in the Final Four. Doromal emphasized the team’s focus on embracing their coach’s system and lessons to achieve their goal.
“In the next few games, hopefully, we get more aggressive and embrace coach Sergio’s system and lessons even more,” Doromal stated. “Hopefully, we really get into the Final Four.”
