The UAAP’s most iconic rivalry returns this Sunday as the Ateneo Blue Eagles take on the De La Salle Green Archers at the Mall of Asia Arena at 6:30pm. With one team looking to establish dominance early in the season and the other trying to snap out of a nasty two-game snag, this clash will be nothing short of a battle for bragging rights and positioning. Here’s a deep dive into how both teams stack up, featuring some key statistics that could determine the outcome.
La Salle’s Potent Offense
The Green Archers are off to a red-hot start, boasting an unbeaten 2-0 record. They’ve been lighting up the scoreboard, averaging 79 points per game. Kevin Quiambao, their MVP centerpiece, has been leading the charge with 21 points per game, also adding five rebounds and four assists in their most recent outing against Adamson.
La Salle’s offensive depth has also been impressive, with rookie Doys Dungo hitting five three-pointers en route to a 15-point outburst. As a team, La Salle has been shooting a high percentage from beyond the arc, converting at an impressive 41% clip.
With the additional firepower that is expected to come from the returning CJ Austria, the Green Archers’ offensive machine would be tough to defend.
On the defensive side, La Salle has allowed just 61 points per game through two contests, making them one of the toughest teams to score against early in the season. Their ability to force turnovers and control the glass (out-rebounding Adamson 51-39) has been a critical factor in their dominance.
Ateneo’s Grit and Resilience
Ateneo, although still finding its rhythm, has shown flashes of brilliance, especially in their recent game against UST. Despite a tough start to the season, the Blue Eagles held UST to just 20% shooting in the first half and dominated the boards throughout three quarters, building a strong lead. Their tenacious defense, which forces opponents into tough shots and mistakes, is something La Salle must be wary of.
In addition, Ateneo’s depth and reliance on senior leadership in the backcourt will be key. Guard Jared Bahay, though still a rookie, has shown promise running the offense, while Ateneo’s veterans have been crucial in providing stability during key stretches.
A Battle of Contrasting Styles
This game will be a tactical chess match between Ateneo’s defense-first approach and La Salle’s fast-paced offense. Ateneo has been allowing just 65 points per game, but their offense has been slower, averaging around 70 points per game. La Salle, on the other hand, thrives in transition and capitalizes on open looks from three, making it hard for them to slow down if they build momentum early.
Coach Tab Baldwin’s defensive schemes will likely focus on limiting Quiambao’s touches and forcing La Salle’s supporting cast to make plays under pressure. Meanwhile, Coach Topex Robinson will look to keep Ateneo’s defense off-balance with quick ball movement and off-ball screens to free up shooters like Dungo.
Key Factors to Watch
Rebounding Battle:
La Salle has been dominant on the boards, grabbing 51 rebounds in their last game against Adamson, including 16 offensive rebounds. Ateneo will need to counter this with a strong effort from their big men to avoid giving La Salle second-chance opportunities.
Henry Aguname’s “breakout” double-double game may prove to be the boost that the Green Archers need to counter Ateneo’s aggressive rebounders.
Three-Point Shooting:
La Salle’s 41% from beyond the arc has been a game-changer, while Ateneo has struggled from distance, converting just 25% of their attempts in their last outing. If Ateneo can improve their shooting from deep, it could neutralize La Salle’s firepower.
Turnovers:
Ateneo will need to take care of the ball, as La Salle has been effective in forcing turnovers, creating fast-break opportunities, and easy points off opponents’ mistakes. Ateneo’s ball handlers will need to be sharp to avoid giving La Salle easy baskets in transition.
The Stakes
For La Salle, another win would solidify their status as early-season favorites, while Ateneo is looking to pull off a statement victory and regain their footing. With both teams excelling in different aspects of the game, the upcoming battle will be about which side can impose their style of play.
Even if La Salle obliterated Ateneo in the pre-season tournament, don’t expect this high-profile match to be a cakewalk. The rivalry remains as fierce as ever, and this Sunday’s clash promises to deliver drama, intensity, and high-level basketball.
Will Ateneo’s defense rise to the occasion, or will La Salle’s high-octane offense continue to roll?
One thing is certain: fans are in for a treat.
ANIMO LA SALLE!
