Monday, September 18, 2017

Thirdy Ravena named as first UAAP Season 80 Player of the Week

Fresh from a surprising run to the finals last season, the Ateneo de Manila University has shown no let up this season, racking up victories against perceived postseason contenders Adamson, the University of the Philippines, and Far Eastern University, to go atop the UAAP standings at 3-0.

Leading the charge for the Blue Eagles is Thirdy Ravena, whose all-around contributions of 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, allowed him to be named as the first Chooks-to-Go UAAP Press Corps Player of the Week.

The swingman beat out Paul Desiderio and Aljun Melecio for the nod.

Although Thirdy was in last season's Mythical Five, contributing 9.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, he shared to the media that for this season, he has learned to be a constant force for the Blue and White. He says, "I need to stay more consistent than last season. Last season, I’ll have a good game then polar opposite. I’m just mentally focused coming into the season, that I need to stay consistent."

Alongside Thirdy's contributions, Ateneo's depth has been in full display for all three games, with their versatility and unselfishness allowing them to blowout all three of his opponents by an average of 17.6 points. According to assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga, "The players have been terrific, their attitude has been that it doesn't matter how many minutes they play, they come in and they do their job. We'd like to keep it that way."

Thirdy adds, "I have to trust my teammates because everyone’s been doing a really good job. We’ve been winning cause everyone’s staying together and we followed whatever coach Tab (Baldwin) told us."

Ateneo looks to keep its slate unblemished against winless UE on September 24.

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