Every game pitting the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles against the De La Salle University Green Archers brings various personalities from almost every industry under one roof.
From politicians and celebrities to dignitaries and world-renowned athletes like Gilbert Arenas and Jordan Clarkson, the rivalry has attracted guests from all walks of life.
The first round encounter of both teams this UAAP season has a distinguished guest, as world-renowned boxing trainer Freddie Roach, who is in Manila to prep Sen. Manny Pacquiao for his November bout, is watching the game.
Wearing a La Salle shirt and seated beside Quinito Henson, the 56-year-old American shared that he is in full support of the Taft cagers.
“I met the team yesterday. I met the players and the coaches. I like them,” he had said prior to the start of the game.
“I like Notre Dame, I like Irish, I like green.”
This is not the first basketball game Roach has watched in Manila, but this is the first collegiate game he has seen live. For him, collegiate basketball is one of the best and purest forms of sport.
“I’m always into college basketball wherever I am in the world. It’s a great sport and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun,” the “Master” said.
Moreover, he has heard about how big this rivalry is.
“I heard that this is big so I look forward to a great game,” he said.
But at the end of the day, he is hoping that the green-side takes this one home.
“A lot of green here also,” he quipped.
“[So] Everyone’s behind me.”
