Bigger battle looms for triumphant Eagles

They have won the battle. Now they’re ready for the war–the UAAP war, that is.

Fresh from a Philippine Basketball League triumph, the Blue Eagles are now training their sights on crown that matters most for them as they set out to end a long title drought in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) .

The last time Ateneo won the title was in 1989.

"We are ready for the UAAP," said Banal, minutes after toppling a title-hungry Blu Sun Power team, three games to one, in their PBL Chairman’s Cup title duel at the Makati Coliseum.

"I told my players that this year is going to be tough for everybody because all of the teams improved so we have to have that mindset if we want to achieve our goal," he added.

Banal said Ateneo would be without 6-foot-6 Paolo Bugia and shooter Magnum Membrere because of injuries but the experience and the confidence they gained in their recent PBL stint could be enough to fill the gap left by these hurting players.

Enrico Villanueva, MVP of the conference and the finals, for one, has improved tremendously under Banal’s tutelage, powering his way in the shaded area and holding his own against the talented big men of the other teams.

His power and maturity would be vital come the UAAP season since most of the Ateneo play emanate from the post, Villanueva’s domain.

Rich Alvarez, Larry Fonacier, Jeck Chia and Andrew Cruz likewise have gained so much in PBL experience and they seem ready to take on the pressure put up by a vastly-improved opposition.

"We’ve gained a lot in terms of experience and exposure from the PBL," said Banal. "Players like Rico, Jeck Chia, Rich, Larry Fonacier and Andrew Cruz have shown great promise which I think will help the team a lot in the UAAP season."

Chris Quimpo and Hernando Elmido saw little action but Banal said that the mere fact that they are part of the PBL champion team is enough to boost their confidence in the UAAP.

Add them to a talented LA Tenorio, a revelation in last year’s season, JC Intal, a prized rookie recruit out of last year’s NCAA high school champion Letran, and Sonny Tadeo, a 6’4" forward returning from a two-year absence, and expect the Blue Eagles to go for it all.