TEAM CAPTAINS
Vince Tolentino
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Vince_Tolentino-Pascual-31-1.jpg)
The Fil-Canadian will be taking on a greater role in the new system of the Blue Eagles, serving as the team’s vocal leader on both ends of the floor.
“[I’m] making them believe we’re a good team. We lost a lot of players, but it just means other people have to step up. That’s not hard to do if we play together.”
Gboy Babilonia
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Gboy_Babilonia-Pascual-30.jpg)
The graduating big man serves as a defensive stalwart for the Blue Eagles on the court and a veteran presence in practice.
“We all know that Kiefer and Von graduated, [and] those are really big shoes to fill for me. The coaches are there for me to guide me to being a good leader for this young and fresh group of guys.”
RETURNING VETERANS
Aaron Black
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Aaron_Black-Pascual-29.jpg)
The Ateneo Blue Eagles’ Season 78 surprise breakout swingman is back with a much larger role. Entering his second playing year, the team’s success could very likely rest on the shoulders of this streaky shooter.
Adrian Wong
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Adrian_Wong-Pascual-26.jpg)
Wong surprised many in his late spurt last season, solidifying his place as a key piece for the Eagles’ future plans. The versatile guard will be creating a solid foundation with Black, Thirdy Ravena, and the rest of the young nucleus in the following seasons.
NEW RECRUITS
Jolo Mendoza
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Jolo_Mendoza-Pascual-28.jpg)
Homegrown talent Jolo Mendoza is the blue chip prospect for his unique offensive skillset. The former UAAP Juniors Finals MVP will bring much needed outside shooting, as well as experience from numerous stints on the national team.
COACHS CORNER
Tab Baldwin
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Coach_Tab-Pascual-24.jpg)
The current Gilas Pilipinas head coach is bringing a very team-oriented system, which previous coach Bo Perasol was criticized for not having. Aside from a system proven in both national and international play, Baldwin brings a sense of discipline perfect for an inexperienced squad.
“I always seek to build good relationships with my players. Most of the time, when you have a good relationship with your team and they have a good relationship with one another, then what you try to implement has the best chance of working.”
Sandy Arespacochaga
![](http://theguidon.com/1112/main/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Copy_of_080916-Coach_Sandy-Pascual-25.jpg)
Arespacochaga started coaching for Ateneo in 1998 after playing his final year for the Blue Eagles and has never left until today. More than anything, he brings the continuity and UAAP experience that this year’s team glaringly lacks.
“We want our players to embrace the team concepts and also the philosophy of the team and philosophy of the school. One of the things that we like to emphasize on our players is our motto, One Big Fight.”
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