DESPITE STARTING off sluggishly early in the game, Team Glory Be of the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team relied on their tenacious full-court defense to turn an early deficit into an 88-78 victory against the San Beda Red Lions-B. The game opened their campaign in the Fr. Martin’s Cup on a winning note last Saturday, July 25, at the Arellano University gymnasium in Legarda, Manila.

The much talked about CJ Perez led five players in double figures, finishing with 21 points to go along with six rebounds, four assists, and three steals in another well-rounded game. Backing Perez’s all-around play were Dan Wong, Earl Murphy, Cole Micek, and Kemark Carino who finished with 15, 14, 12, and 11 points, respectively.

Despite missing several players due to injury, the team of Coach Yuri Escueta frustrated the Red Lions, forcing them to 26 turnovers that led to numerous fastbreak opportunities. The team was also rewarded for its aggressive play, as they were able to troop to the charity stripe 40 times but only managed to nail 22 of their attempts (55%).

The first and only time the team won the Fr. Martin’s Cup was back in 2013 when it defeated the San Beda Red Lions, 68-51. The team was then bannered by team captain Joma Adornado along with Ponso Gotladera and Jerie Pinggoy when they were serving their one and two-year residency, respectively.