KIEFER Ravena said on Wednesday he was so confident about making the game-winning shot even though Ateneo coach Bo Perasol discouraged him from taking high-arcing shots.
“I just wanted to get the play done. Sabi ko, isho-shoot ko talaga,” he said.
Moments after the 63-61 win over University of Santo Tomas, Perasol bared he was tempted to tell Ravena not to take looping shots because he has been missing them the whole afternoon.
“He has been missing that all night. He wanted to take that shot. But knowing Kiefer, he will find a way to hit his shot,” said Perasol.
Perasol’s concern was quickly wiped away as Ravena’s basket with 3.7 seconds left allowed the Blue Eagles to come away with the win and a share of the top spot with National University at 5-1.
Ravena gave credit to Ateneo assistant coach Ronnie Magsanoc for designing the play.
“Coach Ronnie designed the perfect play. Actually, pagkuha ko pa lang, libre na ako. Pero sabi nga ni coach Bo, you really have to take the last shot. He didn’t want to give UST a chance to tie it or go for the win,” Kiefer recalled.
“I just waited for the perfect opportunity. Nadulas pa si (UST guard Ed) Daquioag, naiwan ko siya. But thanks to coach Ronnie. Pina-praktis talaga namin ‘yun,” said Ravena.
The Ateneo star added the Eagles have been running the play during practices.
“I prepared myself physically and mentally. Lahat pagod na, you have to rise above it. I just want to take on the challenge,” said Ravena.
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