Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin had nothing but praise for Letran star Kurt Reyson following his outstanding performance against the Blue Eagles in the SBP Invitational Games last Wednesday.
Reyson took charge for the Knights, scoring a game-high 25 points on a 9-of-22 shooting clip. He also contributed five rebounds and three assists. However, despite Reyson’s efforts, the NCAA champion squad faltered down the stretch as the UAAP kings staged a come-from-behind 90-85 victory.
“Reyson’s a hell of a player and he had a really good game and we knew that they would go to him,” said Baldwin.
The four-time UAAP champion coach revealed that they had to focus their defensive efforts on the 5-foot-9 guard in the final minutes of the game to limit his opportunities. The Blue Eagles, who trailed for most of the game, managed to seal the win with a 7-1 run, fending off Reyson and the Knights.
Reyson, who averaged 10.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game during Letran’s championship run in NCAA Season 98, is expected to assume the leadership role for the Knights next season following the departure of star guard Fran Yu.
“We implemented a few defensive strategies towards the end to ensure that he wouldn’t get opportunities to outplay us. The boys executed them quite well,” stated Baldwin.
Mason Amos led Ateneo with 16 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while Jarred Brown, who made a crucial three-pointer and converted a couple of free throws in the fourth quarter to help Ateneo secure the victory, recorded 14 points and four assists.
“Offensively, we focused on generating good shots for our skilled shooters. JB made a corner three-pointer, so our execution improved towards the end compared to the beginning. I was pleased with the team’s progress throughout the game,” commented Baldwin.
“We simply aimed to have a competitive game, as Letran has always provided us with tough matches. As I mentioned, they are a resilient and respected program. It was an opportunity for our team, especially our younger players, to gain experience playing against a formidable team at the Araneta,” Baldwin added.
