Ateneo de Manila University defeats Benilde in Pinoyliga Sweet 16

Ateneo de Manila University secured an 81-78 victory over the College of Saint Benilde in the Sweet 16 of the 2026 Pinoyliga Big Dance. Despite trailing by as many as 13 points, the Blue Eagles mounted a comeback led by Kieffer Alas, who scored 26 points, including a significant three-pointer from the logo.

Kieffer Alas' prominent role in the offensive system has sparked discussions regarding potential nepotism, as his father, Louie Alas, serves as the team's interim coach. While some reports suggested player dissatisfaction with the shift toward a heavier reliance on specific offensive sets, Alas' recent performances—scoring 26 points against Benilde and 12 points in the opening round—have provided a performance-based argument for his central position in the lineup.