MANILA, Philippines – The Ateneo Blue Eagles see bright things ahead in 2011 especially with juniors standout Kiefer Ravena expected on board for their UAAP four-peat quest in July along with a talented batch of recruits.

Ravena of three-peat champs Blue Eaglets, one of the most sought-after graduating players from the high school ranks, has virtually hooked up with Ateneo’s seniors team, according to the school’s athletics director Ricky Palou.

“Yes, he is with Ateneo,” Palou said in reply to queries by The STAR. “He’s been actually working out with the team for the last couple of months already.”

The young Ravena has been tight-lipped about his college plans after steering the Eaglets to their third straight crown, preferring to concentrate on his studies and keep his options for the next school year open. Reports have it that he might even try his luck in the US.

But as of the moment, Palou is convinced the 16-year-old Ravena is staying with the Loyola-based school.

“We’re confident he’ll come to Ateneo,” he said. “It is our understanding that if he stays in the Philippines and there are no offers abroad, he’ll play for Ateneo.”

Ravena’s father, Bong Ravena, could not be reached for comment.

If ever, the young Ravena’s entry will further boost the Eagles’ cast of holdovers Ryan Buenafe, Nico Salva, Kirk Long and Emman Monfort , new additions Greg Slaughter and Gwynne Capacio and comebacking Oping Sumalinog.

“He’s very talented and has a very high basketball IQ. He’ll be able to fill in the shoes of (graduating skipper) Eric Salamat and be a big contribution to our bid for four-peat,” Palou said of the 5-11 “phenom.”

Olmin Leyba, Philippine Star