SEVERAL Ateneo veteran players are reportedly unhappy because of possible reduced roles in the team’s projected lineup for UAAP Season 89, according to sports informant Homer Sayson.
Except for Jared Bahay, the projected starting five is expected to feature mostly rookies and one-and-done players, including Travis Roberts, EJ Kapihe, Sultan Baruwa and Kieffer Alas, the son of Ateneo interim head coach Louie Alas.
The development has reportedly left senior players Andrew Bongo, Shawn Tuano and Joaqui Espina unhappy after spending years with the program and working their way toward bigger roles.
The three veterans have paid their dues with the Blue Eagles but could find themselves pushed down the rotation as Ateneo turns to a younger core for the upcoming UAAP campaign.
The situation adds to recent reports of possible uneasiness within the Ateneo camp over the team’s new offensive system under Louie Alas.
Some players were previously reported to be unhappy with the increased reliance on horns sets that have provided Kieffer with significant scoring opportunities.
Kieffer has nevertheless backed up his prominent role with strong performances in the Pinoyliga Big Dance recently.
Ateneo has won three straight games since returning to competition following the June 8 Aurora tragedy that claimed the lives of Blue Eagles Rene Clert “Bobet” Baterbonia and Divine Adili during an off-campus team-building activity in Dipaculao. (By the Staff)
