Ateneo de Manila University boosted its frontcourt after gaining the commitment of San Beda-Alabang center Rish Olivenza.
Standing tall at 5-foot-11, the 18-year-old Olivenza brings potential to the Blue Eagles’ roster.
Head coach LA Mumar expressed his enthusiasm for adding Olivenza to the team, especially following their strong showing in the previous season’s Final Four.
“We really saw the potential in her. There are not a lot of Filipinas that are tall and are good at basketball,” Mumar remarked.
“We are excited for her to learn under Kacey (Dela Rosa) and Sarah (Makanjoula).”
Mumar emphasized the rarity of finding local talent with Olivenza’s height and basketball prowess, noting that she perfectly fits the bill.
(C) LA Mumar
According to him, their initial meeting felt like a perfect match.
“She really expressed the desire to study in Ateneo because she really likes the school and she really wants to study here. Nagkaroon kami ng connection right away,” Mumar recalled.
The addition of Olivenza significantly strengthens Ateneo’s frontline, with Mumar revealing plans to convert Dela Rosa into a wing player to adapt to the international game’s demands.
“Rish can shoot from the outside and will complement Kacey and Sarah,” Mumar explained.
“The goal is for Kacey to move her to the wing position because the dream is for her to play in Europe. We are not just looking at the UAAP but we are also looking at her future.”
Olivenza will be eligible starting in UAAP Season 87.
