Ateneo escapes newcomer SWU
Cebuano squad Southwestern University (SWU) put up a gallant stand but still fell short as the Cobras dropped a 72-77 decision against UAAP powerhouse Ateneo de Manila University in yesterday’s start of the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup at The Arena in San Juan City.
In the first game of the opening triple header, an emotional Bobby Ray Parks paid tribute to his late father in style as he scored 23 points and hit a three-pointer that sent the game to overtime to lead the National University (NU) Bulldogs to a 73-71 win over NCAA kings San Beda Red Lions.
Donning the no. 22 jersey in honor of his father Bobby Parks, who succumbed to cancer a few weeks ago, Parks rose to the occasion as he swished the game-tying three-pointer that equalized the game at 64-all with 2.4 seconds remaining in regulation.
Parks was not done yet as he scored crucial baskets in overtime and played tremendous defense on San Beda’s Rome dela Rosa, who missed the potential game-tying basket as time expired in overtime.
Parks, the two-time UAAP MVP, finished with 23 points, eight rebounds and four assists. He also had plenty of help from rookie big man Alfred Arogo, as the Cameroonian had 16 points and 12 boards while Troy Rosario added 12 points and 13 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Bon Guillena led SWU with 23 points and new recruit Fabrice Siewe added 12 but both failed to save the Cobras against the Blue Eagles in the third game.
Article continues after this advertisementKiefer Ravena led the UAAP champs with 22 points and got the needed support from Nico Elorde, who scored 19. Fil-Am Chris Newsome also contributed huge numbers with 14 points and 11 rebounds for Ateneo.
Article continues after this advertisementIn the second game, the La Salle Green Archers won in style as they rallied to beat the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, 73-67.
Rookie forward Jason Perkins made a good account of himself in his debut with 17 points and 13 rebounds.
La Salle outscored UST 22-10 in the final period to come away with the win and spoil Jeric Teng’s 30-point effort.
BOX SCORES:
NU (73) — Parks 23, Aroga 16, Rosario 12, Rono 6, Neypes 6, Alejandro 5, De Guzman 2, Javillonar 1, Javelona 1, Labing-isa 1, Villamor 0, Khobuntin 0.
San Beda (71) — Dela Rosa 14, Adeogun 14, Dela Cruz 13, Pascual 12, Koga 7, Amer 5, Abarcar 4, D. Semerad 2, Mendoza 0, Ludovice 0, A. Semerad 0, Sara 0, Solera 0.
