Ateneo out to remember Divine, Rene in Season 89 campaign

Ateneo’s Jared Bahay (UAAP Media)

The Ateneo Blue Eagles vowed to dedicate every ounce of their effort to honor Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili who tragically died during a team-building event last June in Aurora.

With the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament firing off this Sunday, Sept. 13, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Eagles are eager to play at their maximum level.

Aside from reclaiming the title it last won in four years, Ateneo also wishes to remember their teammates and use it as motivation this season.

“See, there’s the patches again, and let us remember them, this season is dedicated… to Divine and Rene, and their families, as well as the Ateneo community,” said Jared Bahay, who spearheads the fight along with newcomer Kieffer Alas and all under the guidance of newly minted head coach Louie Alas.

“I think just being a leader for our team is a big team for me, guiding the new guys… I think everyone will agree that we are aiming for a championship this season,” Bahay continued.

“Like coach Louie said, no expectations, but of course we can do our best, to each and every member of the team, to achieve that goal,” he added.

ThJay-M Leal, Matt de Luna, Logan Baltazar, Grayson Rogers, Mike Asoro, Sam Reyes, and Alden Cainglet are also up for the challenge as they try to steal the show against the heavyweights.

“We have a brand-new system, coach Louie coming in, it’s a challenge for us, everyone is willing to learn the new system,” said Bahay. — Mark Rey Montejo