UE keeps postseason hopes alive over Zobel

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Standings

* NUNS 12-0
* UST 10-2
* FEU-D 8-4
ADU 7-5
UE 5-7
X DLSZ 4-8
x Ateneo 2-10
x UPIS 0-12

* - Final Four
x - Eliminated

Games on Sunday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre

8 a.m. - DLSZ vs Ateneo (girls’)
10 a.m. - UE vs FEU (boys’)
12 p.m. - UST vs AdU (boys’)
2 p.m. - DLSZ vs Ateneo (boys’)
4 p.m. - UPIS vs NU (boys’)

UNIVERSITY of the East leaned on clutch performances from Ethan Aguas and Lance Sabroso to eliminate De La Salle Zobel, 71-65, and keep its Final Four hopes alive in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Tournament, Thursday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

With two game days remaining, the Junior Warriors snapped a three-game skid to stay in the hunt at fifth place with a 5-7 record. They are now just two games behind the defending champion Adamson Baby Falcons (7-5) for the last Final Four spot.

Adamson set up the do-or-die clash between DLSZ and UE after securing a 70-66 victory over Far Eastern University-Diliman earlier in the day. However, UE will need Adamson to drop at least one of its final two games to keep their postseason hopes alive—a feat the program has not achieved in two decades.

"Mentality namin ngayon ay ‘enough is enough.’ Pagod na kaming matalo," UE head coach Karl Santos said. "Ginawa naming motivation ‘yon since may last chance pa kami. Kahit wala sa kamay namin yung chance na mag-Final Four, sabi namin, hahabulin namin yung last three games. We want to finish strong, whether we make it or not."

UE held a slim 61-55 lead after an Aguas three-pointer, but DLSZ's Bonn Daja answered with a triple of his own, and Maco Dabao followed with a layup to trim the deficit to 61-60 with 2:03 left.

Having learned from their past heartbreaks—including two buzzer-beating losses to FEU-D and UST—the Junior Warriors held their ground.

Aguas drained a long two-pointer, Sabroso banked in a triple, and added a free throw to extend UE's lead to 67-60 with just 28 seconds remaining.

Kieffer Alas tried to rally DLSZ with a layup and a three-pointer, cutting the deficit to 67-65 with two seconds left.

However, Kristoper Lagat calmly sank four clutch free throws to seal UE’s much-needed victory.

Aguas led the Junior Warriors with 23 points on 10-of-16 shooting, adding eight rebounds. Lagat contributed 15 points, three rebounds, and one steal. Sabroso, a Cebuano guard, had 14 points on an efficient 6-of-9 clip, along with two rebounds and two assists.

Edry Alejandro, despite being limited to six points on 3-of-8 shooting, made an impact with 12 rebounds, one assist, and one steal.

For DLSZ, the loss marked their sixth straight season missing the Final Four, dating back to Season 80 in 2017.

After a strong 3-1 start, the Junior Archers fell to 4-8, officially bowing out of contention.

Alas delivered a near triple-double performance with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists.

Daja chipped in 17 points, four rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block. Graduating guard Dabao struggled with his shot, finishing with eight points on 3-of-13 shooting, while JC Espinosa contributed six points, seven rebounds, five steals, and two assists.

In the other game, UST inched closer to securing a twice-to-beat advantage after dismantling UPIS, 92-72.

With Senegalese forward Racine Kane sitting out, Gilas Youth standout Carl Manding stepped up for the Tiger Cubs, tallying 17 points on 7-of-13 shooting, along with six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.

The victory improved UST’s record to 10-2, giving them a two-game cushion over FEU-D for second place in the eight-team tournament.

"One game at a time lang kami. We’re not focusing on NU yet or the twice-to-beat advantage. Adamson muna, tsaka na namin ‘yan pproblemahin," UST head coach Manu Inigo said. "Kung ano man mangyari, gusto namin talunin yung NU para magkaroon ng saysay yung No. 2 spot namin. Kasi kung hindi namin tatalunin, parang wala rin naging advantage buong season."

UST set the tone early, racing to a commanding 60-27 halftime lead before extending their advantage to 82-45 entering the fourth quarter.

Although UPIS outscored them 27-10 in the final frame, the Tiger Cubs’ dominant start proved to be the difference.

Captain Koji Buenaflor recorded a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, while Kirk Cañete had an all-around outing with 11 points, six steals, four rebounds, and three assists. Charles Bucsit also contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and three steals.

For UPIS, Season 86 Rookie of the Year Ethan Egea shined with 24 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block.

Jhustin Hallare added 23 points, three steals, two rebounds, and one assist, but UPIS remained winless at 0-12.

Fourth Game (Boys):

UE (71) - Aguas 23, Lagat 15, Sabroso 14, Alejandro 6, Almanza 5, Timbol 4, Bual 3, Bana 1, Diaz 0, Chua 0, Lorenzo 0, Farochilen 0, Dahino 0.

DLSZ (65) - Alas 21, Daja 17, Dabao 8, Espinosa 6, Borrero 6, Arejola 2, Atienza 0, Gubat 0, Thailand 0, Favis 0.

Quarterscores: 11-13, 29-27, 48-41, 71-65.

Fifth Game (Boys):

UST (92) - Manding 17, Buenaflor 12, Canete 11, Bucsit 11, Solon 8, Bohol 8, Cinco 7, Acido 6, VIdanes 5, Bandingan 3, Ludovice 2, Javier 2.

UPIS (72) - Egea 24, Hallare 23, Melicor 11, Tubongbanua 4, Coronel 4, Poquiz 3, Pascual 3, Addatu 0, Rosete 0, Uvero 0, Hernandez 0, Cobico 0.

Quarterscores: 34-6, 60-27, 82-45, 92-72.

Adamson remains on inside track for final postseason berth

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Sunday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre

8 a.m. - DLSZ vs Ateneo (girls’)
10 a.m. - UE vs FEU (boys’)
12 p.m. - UST vs AdU (boys’)
2 p.m. - DLSZ vs Ateneo (boys’)
4 p.m. - UPIS vs NU (boys’)

MARK Esperanza and Earl Medina delivered in the clutch, leading title holder Adamson University to a 70-66 victory over Far Eastern University-Diliman to further solidify its hold on fourth place in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Tournament on Thursday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

With just two game days remaining in the elimination round, the Baby Falcons took a firm grasp of the fourth spot, strengthening their bid for a Final Four berth.

The Baby Falcons tallied their third straight win to improve to 7-5, further separating themselves from the De La Salle Zobel Junior Archers and the University of the East Junior Warriors with a three-game cushion.

With the victory, Adamson also forced a do-or-die match between DLSZ and UE is taking place as of publishing. The losing team between the Junior Warriors and the Junior Archers will be officially eliminated from contention for the last Final Four spot.

“We’re looking at our own backyard ‘eh. Kung ano yung kaya namin i-control, doon kami, which is our games. At least, yes, may cushion na kami, whoever wins sa UE and Zobel, magkakaroon kami ng two game cushion, ‘eh may two games pa natititra. So we can not relax,” Baby Falcons head coach Mike Fermin said.

Adamson had built a 59-50 cushion with 8:43 left in the fourth quarter, but FEU-D responded with a 12-3 run to knot the match at 62-all with 3:15 remaining.

Two straight layups from CJ Umali and Sanir Sajili allowed the Baby Falcons to regain a four-point, 66-62 advantage, but a reverse layup and a baseline jumper from MVP frontrunner Cabs Cabonilas forced a 66-all tie with 54 seconds left.

Adamson showcased its championship poise down the stretch as a pull-up jumper from Esperanza, followed by an alley-oop conversion by Medina, gave the Baby Falcons a 70-66 cushion all but to secure the much-needed victory.

“It’s a big win for us. Sabi ko nga sa kanila, the last three games, they should treat it as a championship game. There’s no more tomorrow. May game plan kami laging sinusunod at iniiba every game because we’re being scouted, hats off sa players kasi they were able to execute it,” Fermin added.

Esperanza powered Adamson with 19 points, six assists, and four rebounds, while Medina tallied 18 points (14 points in the first half) with eight rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and one steal.

Six-foot-six center Allen Perez tallied 10 points, three assists, two rebounds, and one steal but committed five turnovers, while Umali chipped in seven points, six assists, and four rebounds.

The loss, meanwhile, put an end to the Baby Tamaraws’ three-game streak as they fell to an 8-4 card to remain at third place. They are now two games behind the second-placed University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs (9-2), who are set to face the winless UPIS Fighting Maroons at 4 p.m. to end the day’s five-game slate.

Despite shooting 9-of-20 from the field, Cabonilas still tallied a double-double in the losing effort with 19 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, three steals, and two blocks. Mico Pascual, meanwhile, contributed 14 points, two blocks, one rebound, and one assist.

Marc Burgos tallied nine points, seven rebounds, three assists, and one block, while Liam Salangsang also scored nine points with six rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

In the other game, National University Nazareth School remained undefeated through 12 games after stifling also-ran Ateneo de Manila University with a 87-71 victory.

Gunning for their first elimination sweep since Season 82 in 2019, NUNS, which has already clinched the playoff incentive, will prepare to face UPIS and UST in its final elimination games.

“We played bad noong first half ‘eh. We look at it positively, pero at least may two games pa kami to redeem ourselves kasi yung identity namin, talagang sa depensa ‘eh. At least, ngayon, natututo kami at nagising kami na malayo pa rin kami. Hindi pa rin kami totally satisfied hangga’t makuha namin yung goal namin,” Bullpups head coach Kevin de Castro said.

Behind Chris Urbina, Alfonso Tan, and Lans Lagdamen, Ateneo trimmed the deficit to three in the third quarter, 55-52, but Roje Matias, Chad Cartel, and Best FSA frontrunner Collins Akowe propelled NUNS to a 66-58 advantage heading into the payoff period.

The Blue Eagles remained within striking distance as an Urbina triple cut the lead to 74-66 with 6:32 left, but Akowe, Migs Palanca, and Mac Alfanta took turns to expand the lead to 81-66 and axe their 12th straight victory.

Akowe tallied his 12th double-double in as many games with 29 points on 11-of-16 shooting with 17 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks, while Mac Alfanta tallied 16 points, four assists, and one rebound.

Palanca contributed 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting with eight rebounds, two assists, one block, and one steal, while Jid Locsin chipped in six points, six assists, four rebounds, and one steal.

Ateneo, on the other hand, fell to its second consecutive defeat to remain at seventh place in the eight-team field with a 2-10 card.

Urbina tallied 19 points, four assists, two rebounds, and one steal in the loss while Tan provided 17 points, three rebounds, and three assists.

Jay-M Leal was limited to nine points on 3-of-10 shooting but still tallied three rebounds, two steals, and one assist, while Ziv Espinas chipped in five points and eight rebounds.

The Scores:

Second Game (Boys)

AdU (70) - Esperanza 19, Medina 18, Perez 10, Umali 7, Sajili 6, Decatoria 4, Murillo 2, De Jesus 2, Tumaneng 2.

FEU-D (66) - Cabonilas 19, Pascual 14, Burgos 9, Salangsang 9, Esperanza 5, Raneses 3, Godoy 3, Gemao 2, Hall 2, De Guzman 0, Castillejos 0, Santos 0.

Quarterscores: 24-22, 36-37, 55-50, 70-66.

Third Game (Boys)

NUNS (87) - Akowe 29, Alfanta 16, Palanca 15, Locsin 6, Naitnga 6, Cartel 5, Matias 5, Napa 3, Figueroa 2, Solomon 0, Nepacena 0, Usop 0.

Ateneo (71) - Urbina 19, Tan 17, Leal 9, Lagdamen 7, Espinas 5, Lacsamana 4, Gatmaitan 3, Asistio 3, Delos Santos 2, Kallos 2, Ymasa 0, Reyes 0, Trinidad 0.

Quarterscores: 28-16, 46-41, 66-58, 87-71.

UST outlasts La Salle in five

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L
NU 3-0
AdU 2-1
UST 2-1
UP 2-1
FEU 1-2
Ateneo 1-2
DLSU 1-2
UE 0-3

Games on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

10 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men’s)
12 p.m. - NU vs UE (Men’s)
2 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women’s)
4 p.m. - NU vs UE (Women’s)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas rediscovered its confidence when it mattered most, carving out a 25-12, 22-25, 13-25, 25-23, 15-13 escape over De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday.

The Golden Tigresses notched their second straight win for a 2-1 record, joining the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and Adamson University Lady Falcons for second.

This is also UST’s fourth straight win against La Salle after sweeping their three matchups last season including the Final Four.

It was another epic match-up between two of the league's storied programs in front of 6,539 fans at the Pasay venue.

“What a great match, credits din sa La Salle for playing well din. Sa game naman, talagang pagdating ng fifth set sabi nga namin, talagang ano lang, kung sino talagang may gustong manalo, siya yung makakakamit ng panalo” said UST deputy coach Yani Fernandez.

Tied at 23-all in the fourth, Golden Tigresses’ Angge Poyos and Regina Jurado sent the game to a deciding set with back-to-back hits.

An attack that sailed out by Angel Canino followed by a crucial Marga Altea dump off an over-received ball gave UST a 13-11 lead in the fifth although Shevana Laput responded with a drop ball to inch La Salle closer.

Jurado then attacked anew, connecting on a smart placement shot off a combination play to give the Golden Tigresses the match point, 14-12.

Bianca Plaza’s service in the ensuing play however went long giving the Lady Spikers a chance but libero Pia Rodriguez, in an attempt to lift a second ball, was called for a double contact violation to give UST the victory in two hours and 31 minutes.

The Golden Tigresses went out of the gates firing, taking the first frame 25-12 and even took a 18-12 advantage in the second.

However, the Lady Spikers rallied back with a 13-4 burst in the second to tie the game at one set apiece before taking that momentum to the third for a 25-13 win to move a set away from the victory.

“Sa game na ito, talagang ipinakita lang talaga namin kung ano kami and yung composure namin sa court yun talaga ang nagdala saka yung communication. Nawala man kami nung second set pero bumalik lang kami sa sistema at nagtiwala lang kami sa isa’t isa,” said Poyos, who unleashed 28 big points on 24 spikes, three blocks, and an ace along with 16 digs.

Jurado added 17 points while Altea made 10 points.

Two-time Best Libero Detdet Pepito shone brightly defensively with 24 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions while reigning Best Setter Cassie Carballo steered the offense with 22 excellent sets along with two points.

UST will shoot for a third straight win on Saturday when it faces Adamson at the same Pasay venue.

La Salle started the tournament 1-2 for the first time since Season 68 (2006). It is now tied with Far Eastern University and Ateneo de Manila University for fifth.

Angel Canino did everything for the Lady Spikers, tallying 25 points on 21 attacks, three aces, and a block she laced with 17 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions.

La Salle aims for a bounce back on Sunday against UP, also at the MOA Arena.

UST invokes mercy rule in UAAP Baseball opener

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

UST 1-0

UP 1-0

NU 1-0

AdU 0-1

DLSU 0-1

Ateneo 0-1

Games on Sunday at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

7 a.m. - NU vs UP

Ateneo vs DLSU*

UST vs ADU*

*Law of immediate succession


JUSTINE Rosales delivered a crucial hit in the seventh inning, sealing a dominant 13-3, seven-inning victory for University of Santo Tomas against Ateneo de Manila University to wrap up the opening day of the UAAP Season 87 Baseball tournament on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Season 85 MVP ended the game early with a deep shot to right-centerfield, driving in John Reymond Vargas and Alwyn Piñero for a triple. Rosales then sprinted home on a fielding error by Enzo Montemayor, completing the five-run surge that extended UST’s lead to 10 and triggered the mercy rule.

"Ayan si Rosales -- sabi ko sa lahat ng players ko, pinapakuha ko ng isang strike, pero siya may green light siya. Kumbaga, 'pag nakita mo, tirahin mo na. Ngayon, nakita ko lumagpas 'yung bola, pinatuloy ko talaga siya. Dapat ipapahold ko siya sa third base, eh mabilis naman siya, so pinatuloy ko na," said long-time head coach Jeff Santiago, recalling the final play that secured UST’s opening win.

Rosales, the 22-year-old shortstop out of UST High School, led the Golden Sox's offense with four hits in five at-bats. Piñero was equally impactful on both ends, finishing a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate while recording nine putouts in the field.

On the mound, starting pitcher Raniel Carido kept Ateneo in check, allowing just one run in 4.1 innings before handing the ball to Prince Harry Geronimo, who conceded two runs but closed out the game.

With the victory, UST (1-0) will aim for a second straight win when it faces Adamson University (0-1) in Sunday’s third game.

Ateneo managed to score in only two innings, with rookie Alfonso Tueres standing out as a bright spot. He reached base twice via walks and later scored in both the third and fifth innings. Angelo Bernardo was responsible for bringing him home—once on a base hit in the third and again on a fielder’s choice in the fifth.

The Blue Eagles (0-1) will look to bounce back when they take on archrivals De La Salle University Green Batters (0-1) in Sunday’s second game, following the morning matchup between National University and the University of the Philippines at 7 a.m.

Teams    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    8    9    R    H    E
Ateneo    0    0    1    0    2    0    0    x    x    3    3    5
UST    3    1    0    2    0    2    5    x    x    13    13    1

UP secure win in new gaffer debut

c/o UAAP Media Team

 

Games on Sunday at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

7 a.m. - NU vs UP

Ateneo vs DLSU*

UST vs ADU*

*Law of immediate succession

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines made a strong statement in its UAAP Season 87 Baseball tournament opener, overpowering last season’s runner-up De La Salle University, 15-6, Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Coming off a heartbreaking end to Season 86, where they finished just outside the Final Four after losing a playoff to University of Santo Tomas, the Fighting Maroons showed they are determined to go further this year.

The team entered the season under new leadership, with Iking Jimenez taking over as head coach after the departure of long-time mentor Anthony Dizer during the off-season.

UP found its rhythm in the fourth inning, launching an explosive offensive run against Green Batters' starter Lord Aragorn De Vera. Reigning MVP and Best Hitter Ian Mercado ignited the rally, leading UP to string together nine hits and score eight runs in the inning.

"Itong team medyo may mga rusty pa na mga innings and saka lang sila nagko-contact. Na-overcome naman nila 'yon pero kailangan pa naming i-work out 'yung hitting, kung kailan sila papalo. Meron nga kaming big inning kung saan kami lumamang ng maganda pero marami pang kailangang adjustments," said Jimenez.

UP had to make an early adjustment when starting pitcher Daniel Badrina struggled with errors in the second inning, allowing La Salle to jump to a 3-0 lead.

National team member Kobe Torres took over on the mound, sacrificing his designated hitter spot to steady UP’s defense. 

The third-year standout from the First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities held the Green Batters scoreless for four innings before conceding three runs in the final three frames. 

Torres finished with one hit and two runs on offense while allowing three runs off six hits in 7.2 innings pitched.

Team captain Mercado picked up right where he left off in the past two seasons, delivering a 3-for-5 hitting performance to lead UP’s charge. 

Meanwhile, last season's Rookie of the Year, Aaron Gabriel Nicha, added two hits to UP’s total of 16, including a massive triple in the eighth inning that came close to being the season’s first home run.

UP (1-0) will next face defending champion National University (1-0) on Sunday at 7 a.m. at the same venue.

La Salle briefly found momentum in the second inning, capitalizing on Badrina’s errors. Hits from Yuan Sumague and Miguel Agoncillo helped the Green Batters establish an early 3-0 cushion, but they struggled against Torres’ command on the mound.

Marco Flores tried to spark a comeback with a 3-for-4 batting performance, but his teammates couldn't provide the necessary support to mount a serious rally.

La Salle (0-1) will attempt to bounce back when they take on archrival Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday.

Linescores:

Teams    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    8    9    R    H    E
DLSU    0    3    0    0    0    0    2    1    0    6    7    5
UP    0    0    0    8    2    2    0    3    x    15    16    1

NU begins baseball title defense against Adamson

c/o UAAP

Games on tap at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

ADU vs NU
UP vs DLSU
UST vs Ateneo

NATIONAL University kicks off its title defense and bid for back-to-back crowns in the UAAP Baseball Tournament as the season begins today (Wednesday) at the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Bulldogs face Adamson University Soaring Falcons in the opening game at 7 a.m.

NU ended a nine-year title drought last season by clinching its fourth championship at the expense of De La Salle University.

Now, second-year head coach Romar Landicho emphasizes the importance of maintaining the mindset that brought them success.

"Siguro, continue lang namin 'yung mindset from last year na every game is important. Kailangan 'yung focus kasi we know na we have a target on our backs. Kailangan maging prepared kami sa lahat ng pwedeng mangyari," said Landicho, who is also part of the coaching staff for the Philippine Men's National Baseball Team.

"Naniniwala naman ako na ready naman sila this season."

Ace pitcher Amiel De Guzman remains a key figure for the defending champions, while seniors Gio Gorpido and Herald Tenorio are expected to provide leadership on both offense and defense.

"The seniors will be a great help. Pwede na kaming dumepende sa kanila in terms of decision-making. Yung maturity nila na nakuha from last season magiging key," Landicho added.

In the second game of the day, the Green Batters take on tournament hosts, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

Meanwhile, the University of Santo Tomas Golden Sox and the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles will cap off opening day with an anticipated tightly contested matchup.

Title defenses off to strong start for UST, NU in Lawn Tennis

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Tennis Standings

Men's
UP 2-0
UST 1-0
Ateneo 1-0
UE 1-1
NU 1-1
AdU 0-2
DLSU 0-2

Women's
UST 1-0
NU 1-0
UP 1-1
DLSU 1-1
Ateneo 0-2

Ties on Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center inside Rizal Memorial Sports Complex

7:30 a.m. - Ateneo vs. NU (Men's)
7:30 a.m. - UST vs. UP (Men's)
7:30 a.m. - AdU vs. DLSU (Men's)

DEFENDING champions National University Lady Bulldogs and University of Santo Tomas Male Tennisters picked up where they left off, delivering dominant performances in their UAAP Season 87 Tennis debuts, Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila.

The Lady Bulldogs were tested but showed their championship mettle, rallying from behind to edge University of the Philippines, 3-2, with Danna Abarquez sealing the victory in a grueling 5-7, 7(7)-6(4), 6-3 battle against Jonamil Prado.

"It’s a battle talaga kasi nga ‘yung mga malakas na players namin [for] two years, nung na-defend namin ‘yung title namin ‘yung alam namin na mananalo talaga sila, ngayon nawala na kaya lahat ng laro namin napaka-importante," NU head coach Bobby Esquivel reflected on entering the new season without Season 86 co-MVPs Mae Bornia and Alliah Ragunton. "Kailangan talaga paghirapan, though naniniwala pa rin kami doon sa [seniors]… like kanina mga nag-step up ‘yung mga seniors namin like si Danna [Abad] towards the end."

NU made an early statement as Elsie Abarquez overpowered Joshea Malazarte, 6-2, 6-4, in the second singles match. UP responded with Jufe Cocoy leveling the tie at 1-1 after a solid 6-3, 6-3 win over NU’s Jessica Carcueva.

The doubles tandem of Rovie Baulete and Aji Abadia then put NU back in control, dominating Jesha Cervantes and Sydney Enriquez, 6-2, 6-0. However, UP’s Anica Cari and Glydel Guevarra kept their squad in the fight, posting a 6-3, 6-4 win over Julia Carvajal and Fil Kolin Cornell in the second doubles match, forcing a decisive final singles match.

Meanwhile, the UST Male Tennisters opened their title defense in commanding fashion, overpowering University of the East, 4-1, in this tournament supported by Wilson.

UST officially secured the victory when Nash Agustines and Richard Bautista rolled past UE’s Kent Morales and Mark Dave Palanas, 6-2, 6-3, in the first doubles match.

Reigning MVP Nilo Ledama imposed his dominance, dispatching Red Warrior Marc Suson, 6-4, 6-3, in the third singles match. The intensity carried over into the first singles match, where UST’s Sebastian Santos staged a gutsy comeback to outlast UE’s Jarrell Edangga, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4.

The Red Warriors, however, refused to back down as John Benedict Aguilar delivered a gutsy performance against Ericjay Tangub, escaping with a 7(10)-6(8), 3-6, 6-4 victory in the second singles match.

But UST’s depth proved overwhelming as Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan secured a 6-4, 6-2 win over Gerald Gemida and Kiz Cinco in the second doubles match to cap off the win.

Later in the day, UP continued its dominant run, securing a second straight victory and sole possession of the men’s division top spot with a commanding 5-0 sweep over De La Salle University.

Lance Fernandez set the tone for the Fighting Maroons, dismantling Yassan Al-Anazi, 6-0, 6-2, in the second singles match. Loucas Fernandez followed suit with a 6-0, 6-1 rout of La Salle’s Rupert Tortal in the first singles match.

With the overall victory on the line, Miguel Iglupas delivered the decisive blow, outlasting EJ Geluz, 6-4, 6-4.

In doubles action, UP’s Allen Rombawa and Rafael Liangco outlasted La Salle’s Jose Thomas Bernardo and Darwin Cosca, 6-2, 7-5. Raymund Goco and Andrei Jarata then sealed the sweep, defeating Leyton Portin and Marcus Guinoo, 6-4, 7-5.

In the women’s division, La Salle rebounded from its opening-day loss to UST with a 4-1 triumph over Ateneo de Manila University, improving to 1-1.

Maikee Vicencio started strong for the Lady Tennisters, blanking Blue Eagle Angela Buyante, 6-0, 6-0, in the third singles match. Jam Madis followed with another flawless 6-0, 6-0 win over Ateneo’s Chelsea Roque in the first singles match, giving La Salle a 2-0 lead.

Ateneo managed to snatch a point through Althea Martirez, who defeated Bea Gomez, 6-0, 6-3, in the second singles match. However, La Salle quickly shut the door on a comeback as Arriane Nillasca and Ching Liwag clinched the victory with a 6-0, 6-1 win over Ateneo’s Audrey Ruiz and Reizel Coco in the first doubles match.

Amor Idjao and Precious Miranda completed La Salle’s first win of the season, cruising past Zaina Omar and Adrianna Cabahug, 6-0, 6-1, in the second doubles match.

In the final men’s tie, NU (1-1) broke into the win column with a hard-fought victory over Adamson University (0-2), highlighted by the heroics of Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla.

The NU duo rallied from a set down to claim the second doubles match in a thrilling super tiebreak, edging Adamson’s Emmanuel Pedrosa and Angelo Rosales, 4-6, 6-2, 10-2.

The Bulldogs took an early lead as Andre Padao dominated Soaring Falcon Lander Butcon, 6-2, 6-1, in the opening singles match. Adamson, however, fought back in the second singles match with Miecoz Candelasa securing a 7(9)-6(7), 6-0 win over NU’s Jules Lazaro.

Vince Tugade restored NU’s advantage with a steady 6-3, 6-2 win over Ramon Bentillo in the third singles match. Adamson responded once more, with Tristan Correos and Nikko Lumahang overpowering Aljon Talatayod and Lorenz de Jesus, 6-2, 6-0, to force a winner-takes-all final doubles match.

NU outlasts FEU in S87 women's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

NU 3-0

UP 2-1

UST 1-1

DLSU 1-1

AdU 1-1

FEU 1-2

Ateneo 1-2

UE 0-2

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

9 a.m. - DLSU vs UST (Men’s)

11 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Men’s)

1 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Women’s)

5 p.m. - DLSU vs UST (Women’s)

National University flexed its championship poise by overcoming the gallant stand of Far Eastern University, 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 25-23, 15-8, to stay unbeaten in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

It was the trio of Alyssa Solomon, Bella Belen, and Vange Alinsug who lifted the Lady Bulldogs to the 3-0 record at solo first, creating havoc on all fronts.

Solomon, the 6-foot-2 opposite spiker out of Laguna, tallied 23 points on 19 attacks and four blocks, while two-time MVP Belen got 21 points on 13 spikes, a season-best seven aces, and a block to go with 12 digs.

Alinsug, meanwhile, made 19 points and 15 excellent receptions.

The Lady Bulldogs were pushed to the limit this season after winning their first two matches via straight sets.

“For me, expected ko naman talaga yung FEU na talagang contender din sila ngayong taon, ready lang kami sa lahat ng situation lamang kami or hindi. Yung composure dapat laging nandiyan kasi maraming teams na talagang gustong-gusto talunin yung NU,” said first year NU head coach Sherwin Meneses.

After a 3-3 start in the decider, the Lady Bulldogs just dominated the game as seniors Solomon, Belen, Erin Pangilinan, and Sheena Toring all delivered in their 12-5 finisher that also saw Alinsug and Arah Panique contributing for the win in two hours and 38 minutes.

NU was a point away from taking the third stanza, 24-23, but Alyzza Devosora came clutch with a crosscourt hit to tie the match followed by an Alexa Mata error that gave the Lady Tamaraws the 25-24 edge.

Then Faida Bakanke denied Bella Belen at the net to give FEU the third frame, 26-24, and a 2-1 set advantage.

FEU clawed back from a 20-23 deficit in the fourth and trailed just 23-24 but with an opportunity to extend the set, Bakanke’s attack went out that forced the decider.

“Nung fourth set, sinabi namin sa isa’t isa na huwag natin hayaan masayang yung pinagtrabahuhan natin nung mga nakaraang week kasi talagang pinaghandaan natin yung FEU. Huwag natin bitawan agad,” said Solomon, who willed the Lady Bulldogs in the fourth to extend the match.

NU seeks a fourth straight win on Saturday in a bout against the winless University of the East at the same Pasay venue.

The Lady Tamaraws, on the other hand, absorbed their second straight loss, after losing a stunner against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in four sets last time out for a 1-2 record at joint-sixth with the Ateneo Blue Eagles.

Middle blocker Jean Asis carried FEU’s fight with 20 big points on 16-of-31 spikes along with three blocks and an ace.

Congolese opposite hitter Bakanke added 12 points while Jazlyn Ellarina, a transferee from NU, had 11 points.

FEU looks to regain its winning form next Sunday against Ateneo de Manila University, also at MOA Arena.

FEU-Diliman secures postseason berth in HS Boys Basketball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Standings

* NUNS 11-0

* UST 9-2

* FEU-D 8-3

ADU 6-5

UE 4-7

DLSZ 4-7

x Ateneo 2-9

x UPIS 0-11

* - Final Four

x - Eliminated

Games on Thursday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre

8 a.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (girls’)

10 a.m. - FEU-D vs ADU (boys’)

12 p.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (boys’)

2 p.m. - DLSZ vs UE (boys’)

4 p.m. - UPIS vs UST (boys’)


DEFENDING champion Adamson University tightened its grip on the fourth spot in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Tournament after stifling De La Salle-Zobel, 76-66, Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

With the victory, the Baby Falcons improved to 6-5, creating a two-game cushion over the Junior Archers and the Junior Warriors. DLSZ's loss, coupled with UE’s earlier 89-70 defeat to league-leading NU-Nazareth School, gave Adamson some breathing room in the race for the Final Four.

Adamson’s win also officially eliminated Ateneo (2-9) from playoff contention after the Blue Eagles fell to UST, 82-72, in the day’s opening game.

Meanwhile, Far Eastern University-Diliman became the third team to secure a Final Four berth, joining NU and UST, after an 86-70 rout of the University of the Philippines Integrated School.

Defense was the key to Adamson’s wire-to-wire win, as the Baby Falcons set the tone early and built a 43-30 lead by halftime.

DLSZ mounted a late surge in the third quarter behind Kieffer Alas, Maco Dabao, and Kyann Gubat, trimming the deficit to just five, 67-62, with a minute remaining. However, CJ Umali and Mark Esperanza delivered in the clutch to fend off the Junior Archers’ rally.

“For the past two practices including yung video viewing, ininstill namin sa team na kailangan sa depensa kami magsimula — which is yung identity namin dapat. Good thing, they were up for the challenge,” said Baby Falcons head coach Mike Fermin.

Esperanza led Adamson with 19 points, four rebounds, and three assists, while Umali chipped in 13 points. Earl Medina also shined on both ends, contributing 14 points, six rebounds, and six assists while limiting Alas to just 6-of-20 shooting, though the DLSZ star still finished with 17 points and 12 boards.

“Challenge sa kanya yan e. Ilang beses namin ni-replay sa kanya yung tinirahan siya ni Kieffer. It will happen again if he allows it. Just challenge Kieffer. Pero hindi lang naman siya ang player ng Zobel. If we contain him then defend the others, we have a chance to win,” said Fermin.

Cabs Cabonilas, on the other hand, further solidified his MVP candidacy, powering FEU-D with a dominant 24-point, 15-rebound, five-assist, two-steal, and one-block performance as the Baby Tamaraws improved to 8-3.

Liam Salangsang added 12 points, while Mico Pascual posted a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds.

All 16 Tamaraws saw action in a game-changing third quarter, where FEU-D erupted for 31 points to seize control.

“Sinasabi ko lang sa mga bata, kung matibay lang ‘yung depensa namin at may disiplina, malaking contribution na ‘yon sa team. Kung maka-depensa kami nang tama, malaking bagay ‘yon,” said Baby Tamaraws head coach Denok Miranda.

Dabao paced DLSZ with 21 points, while Gubat added 10.

For also-ran UPIS, which remains winless at 0-11, U16 standouts Jhustin Hallare and Bruce Tubongbanua led the charge with 18 and 17 points, respectively.

The Scores:

Fourth game (Boys)

FEU-D 86 - Cabonilas 24, Salangsang 12, Pascual 11, Esperanza 8, Burgos 6, Cagurungan 6, Raneses 5, Hall 3, Gemao 3, Godoy 2, Santos 2, Castillejos 2, Dagcutan 2, Maierhofer 0, Gutierrez 0, De Guzman 0.

UPIS 70 - Hallare 18, Tubongbanua 17, Melicor 13, Egea 11, Gomez de Liano 11, Poquiz 0, Uvero 0, Coronel 0.

Quarterscores: 18-12, 32-33, 63-49, 86-70.

Fifth game (boys)

AdU 76 - Esperanza 19, Medina 14, Umali 13, Sajili 9, Perez 9, Jenodia 5, De Jesus 3, Tumaneng 2, Abayon 2, Caspe 0.

DLSZ 66 - Dabao 21, Alas 17, Gubat 10, Mben 8, Daja 6, Atienza 2, Lopez 2, Arejola 0, Borrero 0, Espinosa 0, Favis 0.


Quarterscores: 19-15, 43-33, 58-54, 76-66.

Buena return sparks Ateneo triumph

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

9 a.m. - DLSU vs UST (Men's)

11 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Men's)

1 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Women's)

5 p.m. - DLSU vs UST (Women's)

Sobe Buena made a resounding season debut, providing the spark 12-strong Ateneo de Manila University needed to sweep University of the Philippines, 25-18, 25-22, 25-18, and secure its first victory in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

After missing Ateneo’s first two games due to a minor injury, Buena returned with a clutch performance, leading the Blue Eagles to a breakthrough win despite the absence of key players Zel Tsunashima and Jlo Delos Santos.

Buena ended the day with 17 points built on 15 attacks, one block, and one ace with six excellent digs and four excellent receptions in the Blue Eagles’ one hour and 29-minute sweep of the Fighting Maroons.

With the victory, Ateneo improved to a 1-2 record, placing seventh in the eight-team league while extending its dominance over UP to 10 consecutive victories—a streak dating back to a Season 81 second-round triumph on March 10, 2019.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons suffered their first loss of the season, dropping to second place with a 2-1 record.

“It feels really good to be able to be back on the court because I think not just for us 12 on the court, not just for the coaching staff, but for the Ateneo community and for Zel and JLo. We’re really grateful that we got this win,” Buena said postgame.

Ateneo carried momentum from a come-from-behind second-set victory into the third, racing to an 18-9 lead that proved too much for UP to overcome. The Fighting Maroons managed to cut the deficit to 21-17, but a crosscourt hit from team captain Lyann de Guzman, back-to-back blocks from Buena and AC Miner, and another crosscourt strike from Buena sealed the win.

The Blue Eagles also clawed their way back from a 7-13 deficit in the second set, with Buena—who had been sparingly used in Ateneo’s previous two games—delivering three of the final four points to give her team a commanding two-set lead.

The opening set was a different story, as Ateneo started strong with an 11-6 lead, capped by clutch hits from Yvana Sulit and Miner to set the tone for the match.

“When everybody plays good, the team will be good. I give my congrats to Taks because when all the spikers play good is because the setter plays very good. Especially in this match, our service worked to our plan. Our service is our first attack and this impression in the match, it’s so important,” Ateneo head coach Sergio Veloso said.

It was a well-rounded outing for the Blue Eagles as they triumphed over the Fighting Maroons in five of six statistical categories, namely in attacks (48-30), blocks (5-3), aces (6-5), digs (35-25), and sets (17-10).

De Guzman provided ample support with 14 points on 12 attacks and two aces with six excellent digs and four excellent receptions, while Miner tallied 12 points on seven attacks, four blocks, and one ace with three excellent digs.

Taks Fujimoto dished out 14 excellent sets and one ace, while Sarah Hugo tallied nine excellent digs.

The Blue Eagles will immediately face a tough challenge in a battle against the Lady Tamaraws next Sunday at the same Pasay venue.

Irah Jaboneta was the lone Fighting Maroon who breached double-digits with 11 points to go along with 10 excellent receptions and two excellent digs. Setter Jaz Manguilimotan tossed eight excellent sets in the loss.

Meanwhile, UP looks to bounce back against De La Salle University at the same date and venue.

FEU stuns UP in men's volleyball

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Standings

FEU 3-0
NU 2-1
Ateneo 2-1
UST 1-1
DLSU 1-1
UP 1-2
UE 0-2
AdU 0-2

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

9 a.m. - DLSU vs UST (Men's)
11 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Men's)
1 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Women's)
5 p.m. - DLSU vs UST (Women's)

For the first time in over six years, Far Eastern University stunned defending champion National University with a 27-25, 25-14, 25-23 victory, becoming the sole undefeated team in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Tournament, Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

After eking out a hard-fought win in the opening set, the Tamaraws asserted their dominance in the succeeding frames, snapping a seven-game losing streak against the Bulldogs that stretched back to their second-round defeat in Season 81 on April 28, 2019.

What was expected to be a tightly contested battle turned into a statement win for FEU, marking its first triumph over the five-peat-seeking Bulldogs since their opening-day matchup in Season 81 on February 16, 2019.

With the victory, the Tamaraws climbed to the top of the standings with a pristine 3-0 record, while NU dropped to a tie for second place with Ateneo de Manila University, both holding 2-1 slates.

“Yung trabaho namin, hindi kami tumitigil. Kung nakita niyo yung moment sa ensayo namin, simula noong last game hanggang ngayon, hindi pa kami tumitigil magensayo at hindi pa kami nagpapahinga. Yung dedication tsaka yung hard work, samahan natin ng magandang pamilya sa team, talagang nakikita yung result sa dulo,” FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo said.

Tied at 16-all in the third set, FEU unleashed a crucial 6-1 run, spearheaded by Season 86 Best Opposite Spiker Dryx Saavedra and Congolese middle blocker Doula Ndongala, to seize a comfortable 22-17 advantage.

NU fought back, trimming the deficit to 24-23 after three consecutive attack errors from Amet Bituin and Saavedra. However, Saavedra quickly redeemed himself, delivering a clutch crosscourt hit to secure the one hour, 25-minute victory.

The second set saw FEU turn a slim 8-10 deficit into a commanding 18-10 lead, thanks to an ace from Bituin, a Jelord Talisayan down-the-line attack, and a crucial service error from NU’s Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba.

The opening set was a different story, as the Tamaraws had to rally from a 22-24 deficit to steal the frame. Key plays from Saavedra, who fired a backrow crosscourt hit, an attack error from NU’s Leo Ordiales, and a timely block by Ndongala sealed FEU’s early momentum.

“Yung simula, talagang nakaprepare tayo doon ‘eh. Ang pinaguusapan natin diyan kasi yung nasa gitna ka tsaka sa padulo [ng season], ‘yon ang lagi namin sinasabi sa isa’t isa. Even sa coaches, hindi tumitigil sa ginagawa kasi nagsisimula pa lang yung laban kaya dapat lagi lang laban nang laban every single game,” Orcullo added.

Against a relatively tall Bulldogs squad, the Tamaraws flexed their height and defensive depth with 10 blocks compared to NU’s four.

Saavedra led the charge for FEU with 20 points on 17 attacks and three blocks with one dig, while Talisayan tallied 11 points on six attacks, three aces, and two blocks with 14 excellent receptions

The Tamaraws received timely contributions off-the-bench from Bituin, who tallied 10 points on eight attacks, one block, and one ace with five excellent receptions and one excellent dig, while Ariel Cacao tossed 14 excellent sets and one point.

FEU now sets its sights on extending its unbeaten run when it takes on Ateneo next Sunday, March 2, at the same Pasay venue.

Buds Buddin paced the Bulldogs in the losing effort with 12 points on 10 attacks, one block, and one ace, while Leo Aringo tallied 10 points with one ace along with eight excellent receptions and two excellent digs.

Starting setter Greg Ancheta distributed nine excellent sets in the loss, while libero Jimwell Gapultos tallied nine excellent receptions and six excellent digs.

NU looks to bounce back against a struggling University of the East squad on the same day.

UST secures postseason berth in HS Boys Basketball

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Thursday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre

8 a.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (girls’)

10 a.m. - FEU-D vs ADU (boys’)

12 p.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (boys’)

2 p.m. - DLSZ vs UE (boys’)

4 p.m. - UPIS vs UST (boys’)

NATIONAL University Nazareth School inched closer to securing the first twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ Basketball Final Four after an emphatic 89-70 victory over University of the East on Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Later in the day, University of Santo Tomas clinched at least a playoff berth with an 82-72 triumph over Ateneo de Manila University.

With their 10th win of the season, the Bullpups are now just one victory away from securing a playoff incentive and three wins short of an outright Finals berth.

“Malayo pa kami sa goal namin, which is yung championship,” said Bullpups head coach Kevin De Castro. “For this game, maganda na madaming nag-step up para sa amin, kasi yun nga, malapit na yung Final Four.”

Reigning MVP Collins Akowe recorded his 10th double-double of the season, finishing with 18 points, 18 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and a block.

Akowe was not alone in carrying the offensive load, as Macmac Alfanta led the Bullpups with 18 points, Chad Cartel contributed 13 points and five assists, while Migs Palanca added an efficient 10 points and seven rebounds.

Grade 11 guard Mot Matias also had a standout performance, dishing out eight assists without a single turnover while chipping in five points.

“This game, talagang naglaro sila. They showed up as a team. Yun nga, 27 assists—eto naman yung gusto ko sa team namin eh,” De Castro added.

NU set the tone early, taking a 23-14 lead in the opening period before blowing the game wide open with a 30-point advantage, 75-45.

Meanwhile, Koji Buenaflor, off a suspension, powered UST’s bounce-back effort following a narrow loss to FEU-Diliman.

The 19-year-old big man, who missed the Baby Tamaraws game after accumulating two unsportsmanlike fouls, made his presence felt with 14 points and eight rebounds, helping the Tiger Cubs improve to 9-2.

FEU-Diliman (7-2) was still playing UPIS (0-10) as of publishing time.

“Ever since nung first round, lahat ng panalo namin ay dahil sa good start namin. So I keep on telling the boys na malaking factor ‘yung magandang start namin palagi, so kailangan i-maintain namin yan every game,” said Tiger Cubs head coach Manu Inigo.

UST’s Senegalese reinforcement, Racine Kane, was a dominant force inside, registering a monster double-double of 25 points and 19 rebounds.

The Gilas Youth duo of Wacky Ludovice and Carl Manding also provided ample support, each scoring 14 points.

On the other hand, UE suffered its third consecutive loss, slipping to 4-7. Martin Almanza led the Junior Warriors with 12 points, while Topeng Lagat added 11.

Ateneo, meanwhile, was pushed to the edge of elimination, dropping to a 2-9 record. A win by Adamson over De La Salle-Zobel later in the day would officially knock the Blue Eagles out of contention.

Despite the loss, Alfonso Tan led Ateneo with 22 points, while Jay-m Leal delivered 17 points and nine rebounds.

The Scores:

Second game (boys)

UST 82 - Kane 25, Ludovice 14, Manding 14, Buenaflor 12, Bucsit 8, Canete 5, Solon 2, Cinco 2, Javier 0, Acido 0, Vidanes 0, Bohol 0.

Ateneo 72 - Tan 22, Leal 17, Urbina 11, Espinas 6, Delos Santos 6, Gatmaitan 4, Kallos 2, Lagdamen 2, Lacsamana 2, Kaw 0, Reyes 0, Asistio 0.

Quarterscores: 24-16, 47-39, 62-54, 82-72.

Third game (boys)

NUNS 89 - Akowe 18, Alfanta 18, Cartel 13, Palanca 10, Locsin 9, Matias 5, Pillado 5, Solomon 3, Napa 2, Figueroa 2, Usop 0, Natinga 0.

UE 70 - Almanza 12, Lagat 11, Timbol 9, Alejandro 8, Sabroso 7, Lorenzo 6, Farochilen 4, Bual 4, Bana 2, Diaz 2, Aguas 2, Chua 0, Abellar 0, Roquid 0, Dahino 0.

Quarterscores: 23-14, 40-32, 68-45, 89-70

Error-prone Ateneo topples UP in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

9 a.m. - DLSU vs UST (Men’s)

11 a.m. - AdU vs UE (Men’s)

1 p.m. - AdU vs UE (Women’s)

5 p.m. - DLSU vs UST (Women’s)

Ateneo de Manila University overcame a shaky start riddled with errors to defeat University of the Philippines, 23-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-19, and rediscover its winning ways in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite committing 14 errors in the opening set, the Blue Eagles quickly regained their rhythm, dominating the Fighting Maroons from the second set onward.

With the bounce-back victory, Ateneo claimed sole possession of third place in the eight-team standings with a 2-1 record, while UP dropped to a 1-2 slate, sliding to sixth place after suffering back-to-back losses.

“Marami pa tayo kailangan pa matutunan. Yung pagrecover namin is medyo mahirap siya kasi sobrang bigat pero thankfull we came out with the win kasi for sure ako sa tingin ko, nadadala pa nila yung talo last game. Sabi ko nga, mature naman na sila enough para i-handle  yung ganoong emotions nila,” Blue Eagles head coach Vince Mangulabnan said.

Locked in a 13-all tie in the fourth set, Kennedy Batas sparked a crucial 6-1 run, scoring three points to give Ateneo a 19-14 cushion.

UP managed to pull within two, 20-18, after Dan Nicolas blocked Amil Pacinio, but Ateneo responded with composure. Three clutch attacks from Batas, a costly service error by Nigerian spiker Olayemi Raheem, and a well-timed 1-2 play from Enzo Gutierrez secured the  Blue Eagles' one hour and 53-minute four-set triumph for their second win in three outings.

Earlier, Ateneo nearly squandered a 17-9 lead in the third set as UP rallied to make it 21-20. However, timely hits from Pacinio, Brian Castro, and Batas helped the Blue Eagles clinch the set and move ahead 2-1.

In the second set, Ateneo built a commanding 15-7 advantage, fueled by back-to-back hits from Pacinio and another crucial service error from Raheem, allowing them to level the match.

The Fighting Maroons had drawn first blood after surviving a late Ateneo surge in the opening frame. Down 21-23, the Blue Eagles clawed their way to a 23-all deadlock, but a service error from Pacinio and a block from Nicolas sealed UP's lone set win.

“Magandang learnings itong past three games namin kasi somehow pag pinagsama-sama yung sistema nung tatlo, sakto siya para sa preparation namin heading into the FEU game,” Mangulabnan added.

Powered by the offensive masterclass given by Jian Salarzon and Batas, Ateneo overwhelmed UP in the attack department with a commanding 60-36 performance.

Batas tallied 17 points on 16 attacks with 18 excellent receptions, while Salarzon also scored 17 points with 14 attacks and three blocks to go along with 10 excellent receptions.

Pacinio contributed 15 points in the win, while Castro and Jet Gopio completed the five Blue Eagles in double-digits with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Gutierrez tossed 16 excellent sets with three points, while team captain Lance De Castro contributed 14 excellent digs.

Ateneo now braces for a tough matchup against title contender Far Eastern University next Sunday at the same Pasay venue.

Angelo Lagando paced the Fighting Maroons with 14 points on 13 attacks and one ace with seven excellent receptions and six excellent digs, while Nicolas chipped in 11 points with five attacks, five blocks, and one ace.

Raheem, who was the league’s second-leading scorer prior to the match with 41 total points, was limited to 11 points in the losing effort.

Meanwhile, UP aims to snap its two-game skid when it faces De La Salle University on the same day.

UST formalizes fancied UAAP Girls Basketball Finals duel

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Girls’ Basketball Standings

UST 5-0*
NUNS 3-1*
DLSZ 1-4
Ateneo 0-4
* Finals

Games on Thursday at Filoil Ecooil Centre

8 a.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (girls’)
10 a.m. - FEU-D vs ADU (boys’)
12 p.m. - Ateneo vs NUNS (boys’)
2 p.m. - DLSZ vs UE (boys’)
4 p.m. - UPIS vs UST (boys’)

UNIVERSITY  of Santo Tomas continued its dominant run in the UAAP Season 87 Girls’ Basketball Tournament, securing a commanding 107-47 victory over De La Salle-Zobel on Sunday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

With the win, the Junior Golden Tigresses improved to a flawless 5-0 record while officially eliminating the Junior Lady Archers from contention, dropping them to 1-4.

This sets up a best-of-three Finals showdown between UST and National University Nazareth School (3-1) in the return of this demonstration event after a five-year hiatus.

Back in UAAP Season 82, UST also reached the Finals against Adamson University. However, the tournament was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the UAAP declared both schools co-champions.

“I was there, but hindi pa ako yung coach nun. Actually, bitin yun, nagka-pandemic. Pero nagkaraan na yun,” said Junior Golden Tigresses head coach Sen Dysangco, referring to former head coach Ford Grajales, who led the team at the time.

“We are looking forward, not backward, but this is still part of UST’s culture and history. We will try to give a good showing in the Finals.”

UST wasted no time imposing its dominance, racing to a 31-6 lead in the first quarter before extending the advantage to 59-22 at halftime. The gap ballooned to as much as 62 points, 101-39, in the final period.

Grachelle Boteros, a Grade 12 winger, earned her second Player of the Game honor with an all-around performance of 24 points, six rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

Katina Insoy and Rhiane Perez added 16 and 15 points, respectively, while Barby Dajao contributed across the board with nine points, 11 rebounds, six assists, and four steals.

“Masaya, especially the girls. But ang importante now is the mental situation ng girls because we are preparing them for the last four games. Okay naman, but we still need some work and improvements. We will continue to work on the girls,” Dysangco added.

UST will have a preview of the Finals when it faces NUNS on March 6.

For DLSZ, Sofia Martinez led the team with 10 points, while Irish Notarte chipped in eight points and 10 rebounds.

The Scores:

First Game (girls)

UST 107 - Boteros 24, Insoy 16, Perez 15, Dajao 9, Petalcorin 9, Onate 7, Pinuela 6, Wenceslao 6, Floreindo 5, Tambawan 4, Banate 3, Arciaga 3, Anonuevo 0, Villarin 0, Pesquera 0.

DLSZ 47 - Martinez 10, Notarte 8, De Luna 7, Reyes 7, Cordero 6, Navarro 6, Dominguez 3, Poral 0.

Quarterscores: 31-6, 59-22, 88-30, 107-47.

UP impresses in UAAP tennis opener

c/o UAAP Media Team

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines began its UAAP Season 87 Men’s Tennis campaign with a statement victory, narrowly defeating National University, 3-2, at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila on Saturday.

The win marks the Fighting Maroons' first triumph over the Bulldogs since their return to UAAP tennis in Season 74 (2011-2012). Previously, the closest UP came to toppling NU was in the championship rounds of Seasons 76 and 78, where the Bulldogs still emerged victorious.

The decisive second doubles match saw rookies Raymund Goco and Lance Fernandez deliver under pressure, outlasting NU’s Giulian Bandoquillo and Aljon Talatayod in a nail-biting 7(9)-6(7), 7-5 battle to complete UP’s come-from-behind win.

“I told the team before this match—I have five rookies, I have five returnees. It’s a solid team, but they’re all rookies, so don’t put too much pressure on yourselves. Just play your best. Kung ano ‘yung nalaro niyo sa training, ilabas niyo lang,” said Fighting Maroons head coach Jacob Lagman.

NU took the early lead behind rookie Andre Padao, who secured a commanding 6-2, 7-5 victory over UP’s Loucas Fernandez in the second singles match. However, the Fighting Maroons responded swiftly as Miguel Iglupas edged Jules Lazaro in a tightly contested first singles match, 6-3, 7(7)-6(3), leveling the tie at 1-1.

The Bulldogs reclaimed the advantage when Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla dominated Karl Miguel and Ava Mandac, 6-2, 6-3, in the first doubles match to go up 2-1.

But UP refused to back down, as Heinz Carbonilla mounted a comeback in the third singles match, grinding out a 6(4)-7(7), 6-3, 6-1 win over EJ Tugade to force a 2-2 deadlock—setting the stage for the dramatic doubles clincher.

In the women’s division, Season 86 silver medalist University of Santo Tomas opened its campaign with a 4-1 win over De La Salle University, highlighted by reigning Rookie of the Year Kay Emana’s gutsy singles victory.

Emana rallied from a set down to prevail 3-6, 6-3, 7(7)-6(1) and secure the win for the Golden Tennisters.

“Nilalagay ko sa utak nila is one game at a time, one university at a time,” said UST head coach Dennis Sta. Cruz.

“‘Yung mindset ng every player is syempre hungry na rin to claim championships. Mas determined sila this season compared to last year. Nakikita ko sa pre-season tournament, ‘yung sa PCA [Open Tennis Championship]—nag-champion kami doon. The way they practice, ‘yung unity ng team is nandun.”

UST’s rookie Mica Emana set the tone early with a commanding 6-0, 6-2 win over Bea Gomez in the opening singles match. La Salle’s Jam Madis responded by defeating UST’s Patricia Lim, 6-3, 6-4, in the third singles match to tie the score at 1-1.

However, UST pulled away as Debbie Gom-os and Judy Ann Padilla dominated the first doubles match, securing a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Arriane Nillasca and Amor Idjao.

With the pressure on, Kay Emana delivered in the second singles match, overcoming La Salle’s Mikee Vicencio. After dropping the first set 3-6, she stormed back to win 6-3 before sealing the deal in a tense third-set tiebreak, 7(7)-6(1).

Capping off the victory, UST’s April Bentillo and Justine Maneja put on a masterclass in the second doubles match, sweeping La Salle’s Althea Liwag and Precious Miranda, 6-0, 6-0.

Last season’s runner-up Ateneo also opened their campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Adamson, anchored by a clutch performance from JJ Llavore in the deciding singles match. Llavore battled through a grueling contest against Miecoz Candelasa, ultimately securing a 7(7)-6(2), 5-7, 6-4 triumph to clinch the tie.

Ateneo got off to a strong start, with JD Velez dominating Kyle Roble 6-3, 6-0 in the first singles match.

However, Adamson quickly responded as Nikko Lumahang and Tristan Correos overwhelmed JB Cuarto and Rafa Mendoza, 6-2, 6-1, in the first doubles match, leveling the tie at 1-1.

Stef Gurria then put Ateneo back in the lead, overcoming Adamson’s Ramon Bentillo, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, in the second singles match.

Despite Ateneo securing the win with Llavore’s heroics, Adamson managed to grab one more point as Emmanuel Pedrosa and Angelo Rosales outlasted Aidyll Ignacio and Gian Gamingue, 6-2, 2-6, 10-8, in the final doubles match.

In the women’s division, last season’s bronze medalist UP also made a statement with a dominant 4-1 win over Ateneo.

UP’s Jufe Cocoy set the tone with a commanding 6-1, 6-2 victory over Chelsea Roque in the second singles match. Glydel Guevarra followed suit, securing a 6-1, 6-4 win against Angela Buyante in the third singles match.

Anica Cari and Sydney Enriquez then sealed the overall victory, overpowering Ateneo’s Zaina Omar and Audrey Ruiz in the first doubles match to give UP an early-season boost.

Ateneo’s lone point came from Althea Martirez, who battled past UP’s Joshea Malazarte in a marathon first singles match, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5.

In another men’s division matchup, University of the East secured a 4-1 victory over De La Salle University.

UE’s JB Aguilar set the pace with a dominant 6-0, 6-1 win over Jonathan Bernardo in the second singles match. La Salle’s EJ Geluz responded in the first singles match, grinding out a 6-4, 1-6, 5-0 (ret.) victory over Gerald Gemida to momentarily even the tie.

However, UE took control as Jarell Edangga overpowered Yassan Al-Anazi, 6-3, 6-1, in the third singles match, securing the team’s overall win.

The Red Warriors then sealed the deal in the doubles matches. Kiz Cinco and Romeo Largo edged out La Salle’s Marcus Guinoo and Darwin Cosca, 6-2, 4-6, 10-4, while Marc Suson and Rastley Baje delivered a hard-fought 6-3, 7(8)-6(6) win over Leyton Portin and Keno Enriquez.

Southridge ends FEU-Diliman's sweep aspirations

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ Football Tournament Standings

*FEU-D 19 points (+16)
*UST 16 points (+11)
DLSZ 13 points (+4)
Ateneo 9 points (-3)
Southridge 4 points (-5)
Claret 0 points (-25)

*Final Four

Matches on Saturday at UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. —SRG vs DLSZ
4:30 p.m. — Ateneo vs FEU-D
7 p.m. — CSQC vs UST

PAREF Southridge defied the odds and held defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman to a dramatic 1-1 draw in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football Tournament on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

With heroics from goalscorer Joziah Kendrick Rance and birthday celebrant Paolo Tansingco, the Admirals denied the Baby Tamaraws an outright ticket to the final—marking the first time a guest school forced a UAAP powerhouse to settle for a draw.

“I’m happy for the boys—they played according to the game plan,” said Southridge’s Ghanaian coach Sam Bonney. “The main goal before we started the second round was to be part of the Final Four. That’s the goal.”

The Admirals stunned the Baby Tamaraws by striking first, with Rance delivering a composed finish in the 17th minute to the delight of the Southridge camp.

However, the defending champions responded just before halftime.

Captain Francis Sambaan capitalized on a defensive lapse, scoring the equalizer in the 45+4th minute after Southridge failed to clear their lines.

In the second half, Tansingco—celebrating his 18th birthday—emerged as the hero for Southridge.

The goalkeeper made a series of crucial saves, denying league top scorer Jerriemy Biton, as well as substitutes John Incocencio and Arvin Alayon Jr., to secure a hard-fought point.

“Tansingco is a machine,” Bonney said. “He really saved us today—not just today, but in all our games. He was fantastic. We’re lucky to have a goalie like him. We thank him a lot, and I wish him a happy birthday as well.”

Despite the draw, the semifinal-bound FEU-D still remained at the top of the table with 19 points.

Meanwhile, Joshua Moleje’s brace powered University of Santo Tomas to a 2-1 victory over De La Salle Zobel, securing their place in the semifinals with 16 points, currently in second place.

Moleje, a Bacolod native, opened the scoring with a penalty kick in the 13th minute and doubled UST’s advantage in the 55th minute.

La Salle responded in the 73rd minute when Justin Concepcion headed in a goal to cut the deficit. The Junior Green Booters nearly forced a draw, but Concepcion’s stoppage-time free kick was comfortably gathered by UST goalkeeper Edcel Lauron.

“Kay Joshua, binibigyan namin siya ng freedom and confidence talaga sa game, so in return binibigyan niya yung team ng goals,” said UST assistant coach David Basa of Moleje, who now has four goals this season. “Tulungan lang. Tinutulungan din siya ng teammates niya to score.”

“Kung pasok na kami sa Final Four, preparation to the Final Four and hopefully championship na ito. Syempre long game and step-by-step.”

DLSZ remained with 13 points with the defeat and now just hold a four-point edge over Ateneo, which edged Claret, 3-2, in the opening match.

The Red Roosters drew first blood when Filbert Tacardon converted a penalty in the 69th minute.

However, the Blue Eagles responded with a flurry of goals. Karl Molina tapped in an equalizer in the 72nd minute, followed by substitute Quintin Angeles’ go-ahead goal just two minutes later.

Ateneo appeared to have sealed the victory when Ethan Roxas scored from a tight angle in the 81st minute, but Claret fought back.

Filmar Tacardon’s header in the 90+8th minute made it 3-2, and substitute Angelo Comla nearly forced a dramatic finish, only for his last-gasp attempt to land straight into the hands of Ateneo goalkeeper Timothy Patawaran to give Ateneo its third win.

“Of course, number one objective going into this game talagang the three points are very important,” said Ateneo coach JP Merida. “We struggled in the first half. In the second half, we conceded an early goal, but good thing their mindset was it’s not the end of the game. They pushed in the last 20 minutes, which was why we scored three straight goals. Then in the latter part, naging complacent kami, kaya nag-end pa ‘yung game sa 3-2.”

Southridge remained in fifth with four points while Claret remains at the bottom, still searching for their first point of the season.

La Salle secures first win in Season 87 women's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Volleyball Standings

Women
NU 2-0
UP 2-0
FEU 1-1
UST 1-1
DLSU 1-1
AdU 1-1
UE 0-2
Ateneo 0-2

Games on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

10 a.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men's)
12 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Men's)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women's)
4 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women's)

DE La Salle University pulled off a hard-fought 25-21, 26-24, 25-20 sweep of Adamson University to secure its first win in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Nearly a week after suffering a 23-25, 21-25, 18-25 defeat at the hands of reigning champion National University, the Lady Spikers shot down the Lady Falcons to barge into the win column and improve its slate to 1-1.

With Adamson threatening to send the game to a fourth set, Angel Canino hammered down a down-the-line hit before Alleiah Malaluan scored on consecutive plays to give La Salle a comfortable 23-17 advantage.

Canino, however, committed a service error before Shaina Nitura fired a cross-court attack to pull the Lady Falcons to within four, 19-23

The UAAP Season 85 MVP answered back with an impressive back row hit to push the Lady Spikers at match point, 24-19. Lilay Del Castillo then blew a service attempt, before Malaluan converted an emphatic off-the-block attack to complete the bounce-back win for La Salle.

“Sa tingin ko kulang namin is kumpyansa,” said Lady Spikers head coach Ramil De Jesus. “Dahil sa first game namin nagkulang sa paniniwala sa sarili and sa team. At the same time siguro dahil bago rin ‘yung setter.”

La Salle opened the season with a loss to holders National University, the first since Season 75 (2012-13)  to drop an opening day match.

“Doon sa mga pinagdaanan namin nung game na ‘yun, may mga natutunan ‘yung mga bata kagaya nung kailangan nila ma-overcome ‘yung pressure,” added De Jesus.

Malaluan top scored for La Salle with 16 points on 13 attacks, two aces, and one block. Canino backstopped her with 15 points and six excellent digs while Shevannah Laput chipped in 10 markers.

Mikole Reyes, the younger sister of former Lady Spiker Mika, bounced back from a rough debut, tossing 15 excellent sets on top of two points. Amie Provido had six markers, while Del Castillo had five.

Clinging to a 21-20 lead in the opener, Canino drilled a cross-court attack before Nitura’s mishit gave the Lady Spikers a 23-20 edge. Nitura responded with a kill but committed another error, setting up Malaluan’s down-the-line finish to secure the set for La Salle.

The tight second set was a game of runs, with Nitura and Frances Mordi leading a 3-0 surge that turned Adamson’s 21-23 deficit into a 24-23 advantage. But Canino stepped up, scoring on back-to-back plays before Nitura's costly attack error sealed the Lady Spikers’ 2-0 lead.

De La Salle aims to sustain its momentum against University of Sto. Tomas on Wednesday, 5:00 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Meanwhile, the Lady Falcons came back down to earth after a stellar debut against Ateneo de Manila University, dropping to 1-1.

Following her 33-point outburst on opening weekend, Nitura continued to impress for Adamson, finishing with 16 points—15 off attacks—while Mordi contributed 12 points, along with eight excellent digs and four excellent receptions in the loss.

Mayang Nuique, who sprained her right ankle on opening day, made her return to action, tallying five points after a right ankle injury cut her game short against the Blue Eagles.

The Lady Falcons look to rebound versus University of the East also on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.

Green Spikers secure first UAAP Season 87 triumph

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Volleyball Standings

Men

FEU 2-0
NU 2-0
UST 1-1
Ateneo 1-1
DLSU 1-1
UP 1-1
UE 0-2
AdU 0-2

Games on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

10 a.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men's)
12 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Men's)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women's)
4 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women's)

NOEL Kampton and De La Salle University vented their frustrations on Adamson University, 25-19, 25-23, 25-19 for their first win in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament, Saturday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Coming off a 22-25, 22-25, 19-25 season-opening loss to defending champion National University last Sunday, the Green Spikers bounced back in style, handing the Soaring Falcons their second consecutive defeat of the tournament.

The third-year outside hitter, who was limited to just nine points against the Bulldogs, erupted for 24 points on an efficient 22-of-39 attacking clip, along with an ace and a block for La Salle. He also contributed eight excellent receptions and seven excellent digs—all while balancing a packed schedule as the team juggled midterm exams and practices.

“Hindi ako nakatulog nung after ng first game namin. Kasi ‘yun nga, somehow ‘di ko tinitignan ‘yung score (ko), tinitignan ko ‘yung results ng game. Na-straight set kami ng defending champions so napaisip din kami na malayo pa kami,” said Kampton after the win.

“Yung preparation namin for one week, balanse. Kahit midterms week namin ngayon, medyo mahirap kasi after training may class kami. Mindset lang talaga and tiwala kay coach and God,” he added.

Kampton was a man on a mission in the third frame, igniting a 5-0 run with three consecutive points that stretched the Green Spikers' slim 18-17 lead to 23-17, effectively taking the fight out of the Soaring Falcons.

Adamson never recovered from there, as La Salle turned to middle blockers Joshua Rodriguez and Nathaniel Del Pilar to put on the finishing touches in the straight-set victory, which lasted for an hour and 22 minutes.

“Yun ‘yung naging basis namin, ‘yung first game. Kung ano ‘yung kulang na hindi namin nagawa during the first game, ‘yun ang tinrabaho namin. I think even the teams noticed that so somehow nag-agree lang kaming lahat na kailangan namin bumawi,” said Green Spikers head coach Jose Roque.

It was also Kampton who spearheaded La Salle’s dominant start in the opener, igniting a red-hot 8-1 start that set the tone for the Green Spikers and provided the early momentum that fueled their commanding performance.

La Salle then engaged in a tight second-set battle with the Soaring Falcons, briefly taking a 23-22 lead after a quick from Nathaniel Del Pilar and a block from Eco Adajar. A service error by Michael Fortuna tied the game at 23, but Mendoza and Adajar sealed the set for a 2-0 advantage.

Steering the offense for the Green Spikers was Eco Adajar, who had 16 excellent sets to go along with two points. Mendoza tallied 13 points, all on attacks, while Fortuna added 10 markers.

Vince Maglinao missed his second consecutive game due to an undisclosed injury.

La Salle takes on University of Sto. Tomas on Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in hopes of making it back-to-back victories.

Meanwhile, Adamson had its moments but ultimately suffered its second straight loss, falling to 0-2 in the standings under new head coach Raffy Mosuela.

Mark Leo Coguimbal paced the Soaring Falcons with eight points, while Jude Aguilar, Kenneth Paulino, and Ahmed Tahiluddin all chipped in seven points in the loss.

Adamson will go up against University of the East also on Wednesday, 11:00 a.m. as it searches for its first win of the tournament.

Golden Tigresses claim victory over UE

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

10 a.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men's)
12 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Men's)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women's)
4 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women's)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas had to dig deep to fend off University of the East, 28-26, 22-25, 25-23, 25-15, clinching its first victory in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Bouncing back from a tough four-set loss to Far Eastern University last week, the Golden Tigresses leaned on the dynamic duo of Regina Jurado and Season 86 Rookie of the Year Angge Poyos to overcome a second-set stumble and improve to a 1-1 record.

Jurado led the charge with 22 points, delivering 18 attacks, two blocks, and two aces while adding eight excellent digs. Poyos followed closely with 21 points, tallying 14 attacks, four blocks, and three aces, along with six excellent digs and two excellent receptions in the two-hour, seven-minute triumph.

However, the win came at a cost as rookie Kyla Cordora suffered an apparent left ankle injury late in the second set after accidentally stepping on the foot of Nigerian middle blocker Blessing Unekwe.

Despite the victory, the Tigresses acknowledged that there is still plenty of room for improvement as the season progresses.

“A win is a win naman. Nakita namin yung mga lapses pa rin, we will work on it at matanggal yung lapses na ‘yon… Maraming lapses na kailangan i-polish para sa Wednesday game [against La Salle], makaporma kami sa kanila,” said assistant coach Yani Fernandez, who took over postgame duties for head coach Kungfu Reyes. Reyes immediately left for Passi, Iloilo, to assist Chery Tiggo in its PVL match against Choco Mucho.

UST started strong in the fourth set, building a 10-3 lead, only to see UE claw back within a point at 11-10. The Tigresses quickly regained control, as rookie Marga Altea’s attack and an error from Riza Nogales pushed the lead to 19-12. Consecutive hits from Poyos and Jurado, capped by a Van Bangayan attack error, sealed UST’s first win of the season.

Earlier, UE erased a 16-9 deficit in the third set, making it a tense 23-22 battle, highlighted by an ace from former Tigress Tin Ecalla. However, Jurado responded with a well-placed crosscourt shot, followed by a down-the-line strike from Poyos, allowing UST to claim a crucial 2-1 set advantage.

The Golden Tigresses also drew first blood in the match, pulling off a stunning comeback from a 20-24 deficit in the opening set. Poyos stepped up with a clutch crosscourt hit and an ace before Pia Abbu sealed the frame with a decisive block.

UE managed to force a split after two sets, with Khy Cepada delivering two key attacks and Ecalla rejecting Unekwe at the net.

UST's offensive firepower proved to be the difference, dominating in attacks (57-44) and blocks (15-4).

"We always keep the good momentum. Rinemind namin sila na kung i-sscore 'man yung kalaban, sa pinaghihirapan nila. Hindi kami dapat magbigay ng napakasimple at napakadali. Hayaan natin paghirapan ng kalaban at dapat tayo rin, maghirap at extra effort tayo," Fernandez added.

Altea contributed 10 points off six attacks, three blocks, and an ace, while Abbu chipped in eight points. Setter Cassie Carballo orchestrated UST’s offense with 19 excellent sets and two points, while team captain Detdet Pepito anchored the floor defense with 16 excellent digs and 14 excellent receptions.

The Golden Tigresses now brace for a tough Final Four rematch against the De La Salle University Lady Spikers on Wednesday, February 26, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Cepada led UE in a valiant effort with 20 points, scoring 16 attacks and four aces while recording eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions. Bangayan added 12 points, converting 10 attacks and two aces, along with eight excellent digs and three excellent receptions.

Zamudio tallied 11 points from eight attacks and three aces, alongside eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions, while Nogales chipped in seven points.

Ecalla dished out 12 excellent sets and scored five points, while Angelica Reyes provided 10 excellent digs and seven excellent receptions.

The 11-strong Lady Warriors, who made a gallant stand in the opener against University of the Philippines before falling short, aim to earn their first win of the season against the Adamson University Lady Falcons at the same date and venue.