NU ends FEU's undefeated run in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

FEU 9-1
NU 8-2
Ateneo 6-3
UST 5-4
DLSU 5-4
UP 3-7
AdU 2-7
UE 0-10

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

National University reminded the UAAP Men’s Volleyball competition that it is still the team to beat despite key losses, handing Far Eastern University its first loss of the Season 87 tournament.

Flaunting their championship form, the Bulldogs clawed their way back from the brink, rallying back for a 17-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-14, 15-9 victory, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With the win, five-peat-seeking NU not only strengthened its title defense but also secured a traditional Final Four format after the elimination round, improving to an 8-2 record—just one game behind FEU, which dropped to 9-1.

“Sobrang thankful sa sitwasyon namin na kahit down kami ng set, pinilit namin na maibalik yung laro namin, makita yung pasensya namin sa loob ng court. Lumabas ‘yung laro ni Leo. Buti nung huli nacontrol namin, kami ‘yung nagdictate ng tempo at nakuha namin ang panalo,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

After dominating the fourth set, the momentum never left NU’s side in the decider.

The Bulldogs overwhelmed the Tamaraws with a commanding 9-2 start, fueled by a balanced attack from middle blockers Peng Taguibolos and Obed Mukaba, who combined for five points, alongside key contributions from Michaelo Buddin, Leo Ordiales, and Leo Aringo.

In that scorching opening run, NU scored four points from solid blocks, four from spikes, and one from an ace, leaving the Tamaraws scrambling to recover.

The Bulldogs never let up since then, sealing the statement win after two hours and five minutes to remind the league that the road to the championship still runs through them.

“Sa mindset lang namin kasi wala pa silang talo, sila ‘yung may pressure, kami po wala kaya ginawa lang namin ‘yung best namin at sumunod lang kami sa sistema. Tapos kailangan lang talaga ng direction para makuha namin ‘yung panalo,” said Ordiales, who came off the bench and produced a career-best 19 points on 14 spikes, three blocks, and two aces.

Buddin ably backed him up with 16 points on 11 attacks, three aces, and two blocks along with seven digs and seven receptions, while team captain Aringo held the Bulldogs together and made 14 points, 20 receptions, and five digs.

Taguibolos and Mukaba also chipped in 10 and six points, respectively, including two and three blocks out of their team’s 14 rejections, eight more than their opponents.

NU will look to extend its winning streak to three when it takes on Adamson University next Sunday at the Big Dome, while FEU will aim to bounce back against the UP Fighting Maroons on the same day.

Dryx Saavedra paced the Tamaraws with 20 points while Mikko Espartero had 15.

Ariel Cacao, who had 21 excellent sets in a four-set win over University of the East last time out, could not deliver the ball well this time, tossing just 15 excellent sets in the five-setter.

FEU, UST split inaugural UAAP rapid chess titles

c/o UAAP Media Team

FAR Eastern University and University of Santo Tomas each secured two championships as the inaugural UAAP Season 87 Rapid Chess Championships came to a close Saturday at the Adamson Gym.

The Baby Tamaraws reaffirmed their dominance in the boys' division with another undefeated run to the crown, capped by a commanding 3-1 victory over the Junior Male Woodpushers in the finals. Meanwhile, the Lady Tamaraws overcame two early setbacks in the tournament to stage an impressive comeback and claim the women's title.

In the boys' division finals, Jerish John Velarde set the tone for FEU by defeating FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri on the top board. Franklin Andes followed suit with a win over Jian Carlo Rivera on Board 3. Oscar Cantela and Lemmuel Adena sealed the triumph with crucial draws against John Cyrus Borce and Sumer Oncita on Board 2 and Board 4, respectively.

"Yung women's team namin, I think they're the most unexpected na magpopodium finish kasi nung eliminations, first day pa lang nakadalawang talo na sila. Of course, we were hoping for the best na magchampion pero realistically, nung kakasimula pa lang ng laban, medyo tumagilid. But we talked to the players and nagtraining naman din kami," said FEU assistant coach Janelle Frayna, reflecting on their championship run in the women's division. The Lady Tamaraws upended league-leader Ateneo de Manila University with a dominant 3.5-0.5 win in the finals.

("Our women's team, I think, was the most unexpected to reach the podium because, in the eliminations, they already had two losses on the first day. Of course, we were hoping for the best and aiming to become champions, but realistically, at the start of the tournament, things weren’t looking good. However, we talked to the players, and we also trained.")

"Minsan yung mga bata, they doubt their capabilities. I think that's what happened in the first day. Now, we just treated it one game at a time. Yung first na laban sa La Salle sa semis was very close. Maybe may luck factor din. Then dito sa finals, unexpectedly na 4-0 namin ang Ateneo. That's a very decisive advantage I guess kasi next match isang draw lang, champion na," added Frayna, a Woman Grandmaster and UAAP Season 77 Athlete of the Year.

("Sometimes, young players doubt their capabilities. I think that’s what happened on the first day. So, we just took it one game at a time. Our first match against La Salle in the semifinals was very close. Maybe luck also played a factor. Then in the finals, we unexpectedly swept Ateneo 4-0. That was a very decisive advantage, I guess, because in the next match, we only needed a draw to secure the championship.")

Ateneo topped the elimination stage with an undefeated record but failed to replicate its earlier 3.5-0.5 victory over FEU in Round 1.

FEU demonstrated its chess supremacy by reaching the finals in all four divisions. However, the Tamaraws suffered upset losses to UST in both the girls' and men's divisions, despite emerging as the top seeds in the single-round robin elimination stage.

In the girls' division, UST's Daren Dela Cruz and Iana Sotaridona secured crucial victories over Woman FIDE Master April Joy Claros and Kate Ordizo on Board 1 and Board 4, respectively. Kara Meneses then drew against Lyn Getubig, clinching the title for the Tigresses.

UST head coach Ronald Dableo acknowledged that luck played a role in their double championship triumph.

"May kasamang swerte yung nangyari. Naunahan kami nung elimination round eh. So everybody's game na yung labanan. Lumabas yung swerte. Tulad nito, losing na yung board 2 ko. Biro mo napakain nang buo yung tore nang kalaban. May luck din talaga. Pero nerve nga yun ng game," Dableo admitted.

("There was some luck involved in what happened. We fell behind in the elimination round, so the competition became anyone’s game. Then luck came into play. For example, my player on Board 2 was already losing, but unbelievably, the opponent ended up blundering their entire rook. There really was an element of luck, but that’s just part of the game.")

The UST Male Woodpushers had a slow start, opening the tournament with a loss and a draw before winning three straight matches to secure the third seed heading into the crossover semifinals. In the finals, they forced a tiebreaker after splitting the two matches against FEU, both ending in identical 2.5-1.5 results.

FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz's fated showdown with FIDE Master Mark Bacojo became the decisive match, ultimately awarding the championship to UST.

UST had previously fallen to FEU in the girls' division elimination round with a tight 1.5-2.5 loss. However, they made key adjustments heading into the playoffs, which proved instrumental in their title-winning campaign.

Dableo credited UST assistant coach and Grandmaster Darwin Laylo for their strategic preparations, particularly in the girls' division.

"Malaki naitulong ni Coach Darwin Laylo kasi grandmaster to eh. With regards sa preparation, tinatap ko talaga siya. Sabi ko pre linya mo yan. Alam mo na gagawin diyan. Maraming games na napakinabangan ng girls division namin (yung mga preparations niya). Yung tinuro niya, nagamit sa laro kaya naging madali yung laban. Yun ang naging main factor namin laban sa FEU sa girls eh. Yun preparation ni Coach Dar, malaking bagay yun," Dableo remarked after their 2.5-1.5 victory over FEU in the finals.

("Coach Darwin Laylo was a huge help because he's a grandmaster. When it came to preparation, I really relied on him. I told him, 'Bro, this is your line. You know what to do here.' His preparations greatly benefited our girls' division. What he taught them was applied in the games, making the matches easier. That was the main factor in our win against FEU in the girls' division. Coach Dar's preparation was a big deal.")

Following Ateneo at third place in the women's division was De La Salle University, which defeated UST in the battle for bronze.

In the men's division, University of the Philippines edged out La Salle to claim third place.

Meanwhile, Ateneo and National University Nazareth School secured third-place finishes in the boys' and girls' divisions, respectively.

The awarding of podium winners, along with the announcement of individual awards, will take place alongside the UAAP Blitz Chess Championships awarding ceremony on April 5.

UP keeps flickering postseason hopes alive in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

University of the Philippines put life to its dwindling UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Final Four hopes by eliminating University of the East, 25-21, 25-21, 22-25, 25-21, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons arrested a two-game slide to improve their record to 3-7 in the sixth spot, just two and a half games behind joint-fourth UST Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers (5-4) with four games left in their schedule.

This victory also surpassed UP’s two-win total last season.

“Na-highlight ‘yung lapses namin nung third set and we were not able to execute. Going to the next, we just got back to the system, as long as we’re in sync we’re gonna play well naman,” said Fighting Maroons head coach Carlo Cabatingan.

("Our lapses were highlighted in the third set, and we were not able to execute. Going into the next set, we just got back to the system. As long as we're in sync, we're going to play well.")

The Red Warriors extended the match when the 2025 PNVF U21 MVP Isaiah Roca took matters to his own hands. With UP on top in the third, 22-21, Roca unleashed three points while Axel Defeo also served up an ace to give UE the 25-22 winner.

However, first-year players Tommy Castrodes and Olayemi Raheem proved to be too much as they led the Fighting Maroons’ 14-8 strong start en route to the win in two hours and a minute.

“We start palagi sa ensayo. Doon kami kumukuha ng kumpyansa then gagawin lang namin sa actual game. Consistency lang talaga and laban,” said Castrodes, who had 16 points, 16 receptions, and eight digs.

("We always start with practice. That's where we build our confidence, and then we just apply it in the actual game. It's all about consistency and fighting.")

Raheem top-scored for the Maroons with 22 points while converted outside hitter Angelo Lipata added nine points and nine receptions.

Dan Nicolas chipped in eight points while Angelo Lagando got seven with rookie playmaker Louise Aballe lobbing 27 excellent sets.

UP, trying to pull off a late run to the postseason festivities, will have a tough battle ahead though as it will face league-leading Far Eastern University next Sunday, still at the Big Dome.

The Red Warriors stayed winless after 10 games, seeing their long-standing drought extended to 17 matches dating back to Season 86’s second round.

Four players scored in double figures in the defeat led by Raquim Aceron’s 20 points and 30 excellent receptions.

Captain Xjhann Camaymayan made 12 points, while Roca and Roy Piojo had 11 and 10 points, respectively.

UE, despite being eliminated from contention, still continues its chase for the elusive win on Saturday against La Salle at the same venue.

UST, UP earn twice-to-beat advantage in UAAP men's tennis

UAAP Season 87 Tennis Standings

Men's
**UST 10-1
**NU 9-2
*UE 7-4
*UP 7-4
ˣAteneo 3-8
ˣAdU 2-9
ˣDLSU 1-11

Women's
***UST 7-1
***NU 7-1
ˣUP 4-4
ˣDLSU 1-6
ˣAteneo 0-7

*Final Four
**Twice-to-beat
***Finals
ˣEliminated

Ties on Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center

7 a.m. - AdU vs. NU (Men's)
7 a.m. - DLSU vs. Ateneo (Women's)
2 p.m. - UP vs. UE (Men's)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs. UST (Men’s)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and National University secured twice-to-beat advantages in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Tennis Tournament with victories over University of the East and University of the Philippines, respectively, on Saturday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila.

The pivotal first doubles match saw Richard Bautista and Nash Agustines fend off a determined Kiz Bryan Cinco and Mark Dave Palanas, 6-2, 6-2, securing a 3-2 victory and bolstering the Male Tennisters’ bid for a third consecutive title in the tournament, also supported by Wilson Philippines.

“Sa Final Four, I think UP at UE ‘yung magtatapat bukas. Kung sino ‘yung kalaban, sila ‘yung makakalaban namin so prepared kami,” said UST team captain Nilo Ledama.

(“In the Final Four, I think UP and UE will face each other tomorrow. Whoever wins will be our opponent, so we are prepared.")

“For me and for my team, isa-isa naming fino-focus ‘yung kalaban namin kasi… for example, [sa] UE, hindi naman lahat [ng player] makakalaban ko so each of us maghahanda sa kalaban namin. Like sa singles, ako pinaghahandaan ko ‘yung tatlong singles nila kasi ‘di ko alam kung sino ‘yung makakalaban ko.”

(“For me and my team, we focus on our opponents one at a time because, for example, with UE, I won’t be facing all of their players. Each of us prepares for our respective matchups. In singles, I specifically prepare for their three singles players since I don’t know who I’ll be up against.”)

Reigning MVP Ledama set the tone early with a composed 6-3, 6-1 victory over Red Warrior JB Aguilar in the second singles match. Ericjay Tangub maintained the pressure, battling through the second singles to claim a 6-3, 6-4 win over UE’s Gerald Gemida.

Marc Suson kept UE’s hopes alive with a gritty 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 triumph over Sebastian Santos in first singles. However, Kent Morales and RJ Baje overpowered Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan in second doubles, 7-5, 7(7)-6(4), sealing the tie on a strong note.

UST remained at the top with a 10-1 record, while UE dropped to fourth at 7-4.

Meanwhile, following UST’s victory, NU secured the second twice-to-beat advantage by avenging its first-round loss to UP with a 4-1 win.

Jules Lazaro weathered a tough challenge from Aslan Carbonilla in the third singles, ultimately prevailing 1-6, 6-4, 7-5 to clinch the tie for the Bulldogs.

NU asserted dominance early as Andrei Padao cruised to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Ava Mandac in first singles. EJ Tugade further extended the lead with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7(7)-6(2) triumph over Miguel Iglupas in second singles.

UP's Lance Fernandez and Raymund Goco fought back in first doubles, overcoming a first-set loss to grind out a 5-7, 6-4, 11-9 tiebreaker victory against Aljon Talatayod and Gab Bandoquillo.

However, NU’s Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla closed out the tie in second doubles, delivering a 7(7)-6(1), 6-3 win over Loucas Fernandez and Andrei Jarata.

With the win, the Bulldogs solidified their hold on the second seed at 9-2, while the Fighting Maroons, now 7-4, remained tied for third with the Red Warriors.

In the women’s division, defending champion NU capped the elimination round with a commanding 4-1 victory over UP, setting the stage for the finals.

Adi Abadia and Rovie Baulete’s steady play in first doubles secured a 6-4, 6-2 win over Jesha Cervantes and JM Prado, sealing NU’s overall triumph.

UP’s Jufe Cocoy struck first in first singles, dominating Jasmine Jaran 6-1, 6-3.

However, the Lady Bulldogs responded swiftly, with Danna Abad taking a crucial 6-4, 6-2 win over Glydel Guevarra in third singles. JM Carcueva followed up with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory against Joshea Malazarte in second singles, extending NU’s advantage.

Elsie Abarquez and Kolin Cornell then secured the tie for NU with a 7-5, 6-2 win over Sydney Enriquez and Anica Cari in second doubles.

The Lady Bulldogs concluded the eliminations at 7-1, tying UST in the standings, while UP wrapped up in third place at 4-4.

Earlier in the men’s division, De La Salle University ended its season on a high note, securing its first win with a hard-fought 3-2 conquest of Ateneo de Manila University.

Yassan Al-Anazi delivered a gritty 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over Stef Gurria in second singles to clinch the tie.

JT Bernardo made an immediate impact in third singles, overpowering Ateneo’s JB Cuarto, 6-1, 6-0. However, Blue Eagle JD Velez responded in first singles, rallying past EJ Geluz with a 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 victory to level the match.

JJ Llavore and Gian Camingue dominated first doubles, dispatching La Salle’s Fernando Po and Marcus Guinoo, 6-1, 6-2.

But La Salle had the final say, as Leyton Portin and Rupert Tortal delivered an emphatic 6-1, 6-1 win in second doubles, sealing the Green Tennisters’ first and only win of the season.

DLSU finished seventh with a 1-11 record, while Ateneo placed fifth at 3-8.

Story finished: UST ends FEU-Diliman's football reign

c/o UAAP Media Team

AFTER a heartbreaking loss in last season’s final, University of Santo Tomas finished the story, ending the 12-year reign of defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman to emerge as the last team standing in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football Tournament.

Joshua Moleje and James Sunog connived to lift UST to the summit, as the Junior Golden Booters accomplished what no other team had managed for over a decade—dethroning the Baby Tamaraws with a 2-1 triumph, Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

“Since day one, we’ve been working on this, and I know these boys deserve it,” said Moleje, the Grade 10 midfielder from Negros Occidental.

“We owe it to our seniors. Last year, we couldn’t give them the championship. Last year we didn’t win. Now, we’re dedicating this win to our seniors. We just played with our hearts, gave it everything, and God gave us the gold," he added, who is set to join Valencia-based club Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D after the conclusion of the season.

(“Since day one, we’ve been working for this, and I know these boys deserve it. We owe this to our seniors. Last year, we couldn’t give them the championship. We didn’t win. But now, we’re dedicating this victory to them. We just played with our hearts, gave everything we had, and God rewarded us with the gold.”)

Moleje, the Best Midfielder awardee, broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a composed finish from close range.

Sunog then tapped the ball home in the 68th minute to seal the Junior Golden Booters’ first-ever championship in the boys’ high school division, delivering UST its first UAAP football crown since the Lady Booters’ triumph in Season 74.

“Masaya po pero mas masaya po na nakuha namin yung gold at champion po” said Sunog. “Hindi ako makapaniwala kasi yung momentum ng FEU-D po, malakas po at hindi basta-basta na kalaban yung FEU-D.”

(“I’m happy but happier that our team won the gold and the championship. It’s hard for me to believe since FEU-D had so much momentum, and they’re not just any opponent.)

The UST duo’s goals offset FEU-D’s equalizer in the 44th minute.

Sambher Nash Abrenica, starting in place of first-choice striker Jerriemy Biton, unleashed a strike from outside the box that slipped past UST goalkeeper Edcel James Lauron.

Biton, who was subbed in at halftime, had a subdued performance in the second half but nearly salvaged the match for FEU-D in stoppage time.

However, Biton’s header went straight into the hands of Lauron, who held firm when it mattered most.

The Baby Tamaraws had one final opportunity to force extra time in the dying moments of stoppage time, but their last attempt hit the side netting.

Seconds later, the final whistle sounded, officially crowning UST as the new kings of UAAP high school football.

UST’s path to the title was anything but easy.

Finishing second in the eliminations with 22 points, the Junior Golden Booters suffered two defeats against FEU-D and had to battle past De La Salle Zobel in the Final Four to reach the championship match.

“So proud of the boys,” said assistant coach David Basa, who led UST from the sidelines throughout the season. “Lahat talaga binigay nila. Last minute, ang daming atake ng FEU-D pero hindi sila bumigay. Gusto talaga nila makuha yung final. Alam nila sa sarili nila na kaya nila manalo sa UAAP eh.”

(“So proud of the boys. They gave it their all. In the final minutes, FEU-D launched multiple attacks, but we held our ground. They really wanted to win the final. They knew deep inside that they could become UAAP champions.”)

This marks the first time since Season 72 that the high school football title does not belong to FEU-D.

The Baby Tamaraws topped the elimination round with 28 points from nine wins and one draw before narrowly edging guest school PAREF Southridge 1-0 in the semifinals. However, their dynasty came to an abrupt end in the final.

Despite the heartbreak, Biton still had plenty to celebrate, claiming multiple accolades in his impressive Season 87 debut. The 16-year-old striker from Negros was named Rookie of the Year, Best Striker, and Golden Boot winner after scoring 10 goals throughout the campaign.

De La Salle Zobel’s Bacchus Ekberg secured the Best Defender award for the second consecutive year, while Southridge’s Paolo Tansingco was honored as Best Goalkeeper for his standout performances during the Admirals’ Cinderella run.

UST’s Stephen Flores earned the Most Valuable Player award for anchoring the Junior Golden Booters’ rock-solid defense.

Aside from the silver medal, FEU-D also took home the Fair Play Award for accumulating the fewest yellow and red cards this season.

Meanwhile, De La Salle-Zobel secured the bronze medal for the second straight year.

La Salle rides on Canino season-high to outlast UST

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

Battling through pain and adversity, Angel Canino delivered a season-high performance to will De La Salle University past University of Santo Tomas in a thrilling 15-25, 25-17, 24-26, 25-20, 16-14 victory in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament second round, Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Refusing to back down despite her struggles, including an inadvertent knee of an out-of-balanced Shevana Laput to her head early in the fourth, Canino led the Lady Spikers in snapping a four-game losing streak against the Golden Tigresses, who had dominated them since Season 86—including a five-setter in the first round, 25-12, 22-25, 13-25, 25-23, 15-13.

The Season 85 rookie MVP left it all on the court with 27 points, including two blocks, 13 digs, and 13 receptions.

After the final whistle, the former MVP bowed down to the ground in relief and exhaustion before being rushed to the Makati Medical Center.

“Actually, after the game syempre emotional. Actually, naapektuhan din siya nung [natamaan] siya ni Shevana sa batok, medyo nahilo, parang nahihilo so yun nga after the game although naging emotional, before pa sinasabi na sa amin na si Angel medyo hindi maganda ‘yung ano so kinuha agad nung PT namin and doctor namin,” said De La Salle deputy Noel Orcullo after the two-hour, 44-minute marathon, providing an update on Canino's condition.

"Hopefully, maging maayos, hindi naman maging malala ‘yung naging tama sa kanya."

(“Actually, after the game, of course, it was emotional. Actually, she was also affected when Shevana hit her in the neck; she got a bit dizzy, like she was feeling lightheaded. So yeah, after the game, although she became emotional, even before that, she was telling us that Angel wasn’t feeling well, so our PT and doctor immediately took care of her. Hopefully, it will be okay, and it won’t be anything serious.")

A successful challenge by UST coach Kungfu Reyes that saw the finger of Lilay Del Castillo grazing the ball spiked by Angge Poyos put the Golden Tigresses at a 2-1 set advantage, 26-24.

But Alleiah Malaluan, Amie Provido, and Canino willed La Salle in the fourth stanza to force a decider.

Then in the fifth, the two sides literally just changed points up until 14 all.

Shevana Laput’s back-to-back hits on a backrow kill and a solid block on Poyos gave the Lady Spikers the match point at 14-13 but Regina Jurado knotted the game anew with a solid off-the-block hit.

Laput, who had been giving power hits throughout the set, bluffed the blockers with an off-speed hit for another match point for La Salle then Provido clinched the game by closing the crosscourt angle of Jurado for the emotional triumph.

“Sabi nga namin sa mga bata umpisa pa lang, gustuhin niyo manalo, ito labanan ng puso. Yan yung lagi naming sinasabi sa kanila na hindi pupwedeng papasok tayo sa loob na ang umiiral sa atin ‘yung takot,” said Orcullo.

("As we always tell the kids from the start, you may want to win, but this is a battle of the heart. That's what we always remind them, that we can't go in there with fear leading us.")

“This has been a long time coming. This is something we’ve been wanting ever since last year. This is a big hugot for us. I’m proud of us for getting through this,” said Laput, who had 16 points on 15 attacks and a block.

Prior to victory, La Salle’s most recent conquest against UST was on May 3, 2023, 26-24, 25-22, 20-25, 25-19, to advance to the Season 85 Finals.

With this grind-out victory, the Lady Spikers improved to 6-3 to join the FEU Lady Tamaraws at second to third with the former holding the tiebreak due to their first round win against the latter, heating up the race for twice-to-beat slot in the Final Four

UST dropped to 5-4, just a game ahead of Ateneo and University of the Philippines in the race for the No. 4 slot. The Golden Tigresses absorbed their third straight loss.

Provido ended up with 12 points including four blocks while Malaluan made 10 points in the win that La Salle dominated the spiking (63-55) and service department, 7-0, to atone for its 38 errors, 13 more than UST.

Mikole Reyes also shone with 26 excellent sets and four points while Lyka De Leon notched 23 receptions and nine digs.

La Salle will next face archrival Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday still at the Big Dome.

UST will look to stop its slide when it faces struggling Adamson University on Wednesday.

Jurado led the Tigresses with 22 points and 14 digs, while Angge Poyos struggled with just 12 points on 12-of-41 attacking clip.

Cassie Carballo still netted 27 excellent sets and four points while Detdet Pepito had 21 receptions and 22 digs.

Adamson outlasts UP in extras in resumption of postponed baseball matchup

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

NU 5-0
DLSU 3-2
AdU 3-2
UP 2-3
UST 1-4
Ateneo 1-4

AFTER five days and 19 hours, Adamson University finally completed its dramatic comeback against University of the Philippines.

The Soaring Falcons wrapped up their first round of the UAAP Season 87 Baseball tournament with a thrilling 19-17, come-from-behind win in 10 innings against the Fighting Maroons, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Rookie infielder James Nisnisan played a crucial role in Adamson’s third victory of the season—matching their total wins from Season 86—by anchoring the defense and shutting down any UP rally attempts.

Fighting Maroons captain Ian Mercado kept UP’s hopes alive in the tenth inning, putting runners on the corners for last year’s Rookie of the Year, Aaron Nicha, after reaching first base on an error by Adamson third baseman Mark Montoya.

However, Mark Vincent Simbajon came up with a clutch defensive play, throwing out the reigning MVP as he attempted to steal second. Shortstop Raizen Pacquiao made the tag, stopping UP’s momentum.

That sequence proved to be the turning point, as UP could only muster a single run from Nicha’s hit, which brought home Eman Cahilo—far from enough for a comeback.

Nisnisan, who started at center field, delivered a perfectly placed pitch to Eman Javier, setting up his substitute, Zerge Madarimot, for the crucial catch and the final out.

The game had initially been called off due to darkness last Sunday, March 23, with Adamson holding a 16-14 lead after an explosive ninth-inning rally where they scored ten runs.

Down by eight runs at 6-14, the Soaring Falcons staged the improbable comeback, with their second-stringers stepping up for the San Marcelino-based squad.

Joao Severino delivered two hits and two RBIs in the ninth, but it was Montoya—who batted for Kurt Cabanillas—and Kier Plaza—who replaced Dan Rommel Bacalla—who provided the spark.

Montoya’s sacrifice fly to left field allowed Nisnisan and Madarimot to score, while Plaza came through with two hits and two RBIs, bringing Montoya and Severino home.

“Patapos na ‘yung game eh, so ang initial plan nila Coach (Lando Binarao) is pagpahingahin na ‘yung mga first stringers. Suddenly, ang nangyari nga is nadepensahan namin and nag-connect-connect ‘yung hitting ng second stringers,” said Adamson team captain Ivan Jonson.

“Alam ko naman na ‘tong mga kasabay ko sa second stringers eh sobrang gigil eh. Four games na eh, four games na ‘yung hinintay namin. Buti nag-connect, ‘yung puso namin lalong tumibay kaya nakuha namin ‘yung lamang. And ang sinabi nga namin, tatapusin namin ‘to ngayon.”

UP attempted to mount a response, scoring two runs in the bottom of the ninth by capitalizing on Adamson’s defensive lapses and key plays from Razhley Santos and LM Basañes, including a well-placed bunt.

However, Adamson re-established a three-run cushion, 19-16, in the tenth inning.

An uncharacteristic fielding error from Mercado allowed Christian Bacarisas and Nisnisan to score, while Madarimot crossed the plate off a throwing error by shortstop Nicha.

Teams 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 R H E
AdU   0 0 2 0 2 0 0 2 10 3 19 12 4
UP      1 0 1 6 2 0 2 2 2 1 17 18 7

Ateneo extends winning streak to three

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

Learning the lessons from its first round encounter, Ateneo de Manila University finished off Adamson University in straight sets this time, 25-23, 25-14, 25-23, to secure its third straight win in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

The Blue Eagles faced the Lady Falcons in their season opener and were a recipient of a stinging 25-21, 25-20, 12-25, 15-25, 12-15 reverse sweep with Shaina Nitura breaking the then UAAP rookie scoring record with 33 points.

Ateneo took the lessons of that heartbreaker and made sure not to repeat its mistakes this second round.

“I think our best skill today was our serves. Our serves did a lot of damage to the opponent. This is important, and in the hard moments, my team continued to focus,s and it’s the best to do for this moment,” said Blue Eagles head coach Sergio Veloso as his squad dominated the aces department, 12-5.

Ateneo now holds a 4-5 record for joint-fifth and sixth spots with University of the Philippines.

The sweep became possible when Ateneo turned a 16-19 deficit to a 25-23 win in the first set, thanks to the tandem of Jihan Chuatico and AC Miner.

That momentum cascaded in the second frame, where the Blue Eagles just dominated the Lady Falcons, 25-14.

But Adamson did not go easily in the third with Ateneo at match point, 24-21, as Nitura delivered back-to-back hits to inch within a point, but the sensational rookie in the next play grazed the net on a block attempt, giving the Blue Eagles the victory in one hour and 39 minutes.

“For this game everyone contributed, like everyone put the effort and they are focused inside the court. We just fight kahit anong mangyari, just push through every point,” said setter Taks Fujimoto, who tossed 17 excellent sets to go with five points on three attacks and two aces.

Miner led the balanced offense of Ateneo with 13 points, while Lyann De Guzman turned in another all-around performance with 12 points, 13 digs, and 13 receptions.

Zey Pacia also delivered 10 points and eight digs in the win that saw the Blue Eagles make more spikes, 40-33, and commit fewer errors, 17-21.

Ateneo eyes another win on Wednesday when it clashes with rival De La Salle University at the same Cubao venue, hoping to get back one of the teams it lost in the first round. The Lady Spikers have won their last 15 duels with the Blue Eagles.

Nitura still unleashed 21 points, 11 receptions, and seven digs in the loss, but she had no help.

Frances Mordi had nine points, while the rest of Adamson scored just four points or less.

The Lady Falcons, who dropped to solo seventh at 3-6, will look to rebound on Wednesday as well against the UST Golden Tigresses.

Ateneo locks in third spot in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Standings

FEU 9-0
NU 7-2
Ateneo 6-3
UST 5-4
DLSU 5-4
UP 2-7
AdU 2-7
UE 0-9

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

ATENEO de Manila University strengthened its hold of the third spot in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament after taking down Adamson University, 25-21, 19-25, 25-16, 25-17, for its third straight win on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Blue Eagles, who missed the Final Four in the past two seasons and finished at fifth both times, now hold a 6-3 record - a game ahead of closest pursuers University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers with identical 5-4 slates.

“Happy ako kasi kahit ilang sets pa yan basta panalo is panalo sa akin kasi tinrabaho yan ng players. Nagtiwala sila sa amin, nagtiwala kami sa kanila kaya ito yung nagiging result namin,” said Ateneo head coach Vince Mangulabnan after the one-hour, 52-minute battle.

("I'm happy because no matter how many sets it takes, a win is a win for me since the players worked hard for it. They trusted us, and we trusted them—that's why this is the result we achieved.")

The Blue Eagles regained control of the match after the Soaring Falcons tied the game at one set apiece, thanks to superb defense that limited their foes in the third set.

In the third frame, Adamson only scored five attack points and one ace while its other 10 points came from the errors of Ateneo.

Then the Blue Eagles finished off the Falcons with a strong finisher in the fourth, turning an 18-16 close game to a 25-17 clincher, thanks to Kennedy Batas and Amil Pacinio’s efforts.

“Honestly, nung first two sets lousy ‘yung galaw ng isa’t isa so sinabihan ko lang sila na mag-smile kayo kasi malaking tulong yan and don’t be encouraged kasi nawala kami sa focus nung second set. In the latter part ng game, we were able to overcome ‘yung ganoong challenges,” said Batas, who got 20 points and 11 receptions.

("Honestly, in the first two sets, everyone was moving sluggishly, so I just told them to smile because it helps a lot. I also reminded them not to get discouraged just because we lost focus in the second set. In the latter part of the game, we were able to overcome those challenges.")

Jian Salarzon chipped in 19 points and eight digs, while Pacinio had 15 points.

Lorenzo Gutierrez steered the Blue Eagles with 24 excellent sets, while libero Lance De Castro delivered 14 excellent receptions and 10 digs.

Ateneo looks to continue its streak on Wednesday when it faces La Salle also at the Big Dome.

The Soaring Falcons, on the other hand, slipped to 2-7, joining the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons at sixth and seventh places.

Jude Aguilar was the lone bright spot with 16 points on 13-of-42 attacks and three blocks.

Adamson, looking to regain its winning form, will collide with UST on Wednesday as well.

Adamson shutout completes softball eliminations sweep

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Softball Standings

x-AdU 8-0
x-UP 6-2
y-UST 3-5
y-DLSU 3-5
Ateneo 0-8

x-Finals
y-Battle for Third

REIGNING 11-time champion Adamson University completed an elimination-round sweep of the UAAP Season 87 Softball Tournament in dominant fashion, shutting out De La Salle University 9-0 in five innings, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons will carry their perfect 8-0 record into Game 1 of the best-of-three finals series against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, set for Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Lady Batters will battle the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Softbelles on the same day in a one-game playoff for the bronze medal.

"At least ngayon, mas maganda 'yung hitting namin against La Salle compared sa previous game. So, I think, 'yun nga, nire-ready na rin nila 'yung sarili nila (for the Finals) kasi sila mismo sinasabi nila hindi madali ang championship ngayong taon," said head coach Ana Santiago.

("At least now, our hitting against La Salle was better compared to the previous game. So, I think they are already preparing themselves for the Finals because they themselves acknowledge that winning the championship this year won’t be easy.")

"At least, what is important is, sabi nga nila, nasa championship pa rin kami," added the concurrent Blu Girls head coach.

("At least, what’s important is that, as they say, we’re still in the championship.")

Offense—an area Santiago and her coaching staff had been focusing on in recent games—was in full display as Adamson secured its eighth consecutive victory. Neomay Mahinay and Mae Langga set the tone as the team’s lead-off batters.

Mahinay delivered a flawless performance at the plate, going two-for-two, while Langga, who replaced Chastene Jover, smashed a double in the fifth inning.

Senior Alaiza Talisik played a crucial role in the Lady Falcons’ fourth-inning surge, recording a double that drove in two runs. Jeelyn Pajotal and Roma Jane Cruz extended the lead to 7-0, and Talisik later scored on a hit by Madaelene Domaug, pushing the margin to 8-0.

On the mound, April Minanga took over from Glory Alonzo and maintained Adamson’s shutout, holding La Salle scoreless over two innings despite surrendering three hits—one each to April Gonzales in the fourth and Glecilyn Alipato and Julian Gail Moral in the fifth.

Alonzo, who secured the win, allowed just one hit from Cassandra Inot in the third inning, leading to three scoreless innings for De La Salle.

Lady Green Batters pitcher Joerjette Jordan absorbed the loss, giving up four runs in the first two innings before being pulled from the game.

Teams 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
AdU    2 2 1 3 1 x x 9 9 2
DLSU 0 0 0 0 0 x x 0 4 4

Tiger Spikers snap skid

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas stood firm against Noel Kampton’s 30-point outing, overcoming a third-set slip to outlast De La Salle University, 25-22, 25-22, 16-25, 25-22, and snap a three-game skid in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament, Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Refusing to be rattled after Kampton powered La Salle to a dominant third-set win, the Golden Spikers regrouped and delivered in the clutch, securing their second victory over the Green Spikers this season and wheeling back to Final Four contention.

UST improved to 5-4, forcing a tie for fourth and fifth spots with La Salle. The Golden Spikers hold the tiebreak advantage due to their head-to-head wins.

“Thank you sa team for the wonderful birthday present. We’re back sa win column and about doon sa errors namin, doon sa ending nahihirapan, nadidistract to close out the game. Yun yung inayos namin actually for the past week, and I think it was quite a success,” said UST head coach Odjie Mamon, who celebrated his birthday last Friday.

(“Thank you to the team for the wonderful birthday present. We're back in the win column, and regarding our errors, especially at the end when we struggle and get distracted in closing out the game—that's what we worked on this past week. I think it was quite a success.")

The Golden Spikers were too poised to be broken by their third set loss, rediscovering their form in the fourth to clinch the victory.

Ahead by just 18-19 in the fourth period, UST made a 5-2 blitz courtesy of Josh Ybañez and JJ Macam to reach match point, 24-21.

Although Kampton managed to get a point back, Trevor Valera finished it for the Golden Spikers with a quick hit for the triumphant rebound after one hour and 51 minutes.

“Sobrang thankful talaga ako kasi always ko inaalala kagabi na birthday gift namin kay coach Odjie ay manalo ngayon. I think that’s the best na maibigay namin kay coach. Sa performance ko naman siguro mas kaya ko pa siyang lamangan,” said Ybañez, who experienced his first win this season.

(“I’m really grateful because last night, I kept thinking that the best birthday gift we could give Coach Odjie was a win today. I think that’s the best thing we could offer him. As for my performance, I believe I can still do better.")

Prior to this, UST lost all four games he played in.

The reigning MVP provided a personal season-high of 21 points on 15 spikes and six aces, along with 16 excellent receptions and four digs.

Dux Yambao orchestrated the offense with 27 excellent sets with five points as Popoy Colinares and Jay Rack Dela Noche notched 15 and 11 points, respectively.

Kampton delivered a career-high 30 points on 27-of-51 attacks to go with two aces and a block, but all went down the drain.

He was the only Green Spiker in double digits as Maglinao was the next highest scorer with eight points to go with 16 excellent receptions and four digs.

Both teams will be back on Wednesday, still at the Big Dome, with La Salle seeking a bounce back at 9 a.m. against Ateneo de Manila University and UST eyeing a win streak at 11 a.m. against Adamson University.

UP ready for Softball finals rematch

c/o UAAP Media Team

FINALS-BOUND University of the Philippines wrapped up its UAAP Season 87 Softball elimination round campaign on a high note, defeating University of Santo Tomas, 6-1, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Fighting Maroons finished with a 6-2 record heading into the Finals, while the Tiger Softbelles dropped to 3-5, currently sitting in fourth place.

Game 1 of the Finals between UP and the still-undefeated Adamson University (7-0) is set for Tuesday, with the game time yet to be determined.

Meanwhile, UST awaits the result of the ongoing matchup between De La Salle University (3-4) and Adamson. The Tiger Softbelles are hoping for an elimination round sweep by the reigning champion Lady Falcons, which would force a playoff for the bronze medal.

"Preparation namin 'to for the championship, at hindi pa ako satisfied. Marami pang dapat i-improve kung talagang gustong manalo. So, 'pag dating sa training, i-focus pa namin 'yung maliliit na concerns, dapat ma-adjust pa namin," said UP head coach Ron Pagkaliwagan.

("This is our preparation for the championship, and I'm not satisfied yet. There are still many things we need to improve if we really want to win. So when it comes to training, we need to focus on the small concerns and make the necessary adjustments.")

UST struggled against UP pitcher Celine Chang in the first three innings before the Fighting Maroons made adjustments that paid off. Danica Aquino ignited the offense in the fourth inning with a well-placed bunt, reaching base safely and setting the stage for UP’s scoring surge.

Captain Nickole Dela Cruz delivered the first of her two hits, bringing Aquino home for the go-ahead run. Shortstop Aila Subaldo followed with a game-changing hit, driving in two RBIs as Erika Ocampo and Reuel Caoagdan crossed the plate, extending UP's lead to 4-0.

That offensive burst proved to be enough, as the Fighting Maroons tightened up on defense. Ace pitcher KC Valino relieved starter Diane Pasco and played a key role in securing the win.

Valino faced early pressure, walking Royeve Palma, the first batter she encountered, but quickly made a crucial defensive play. She caught a short fly ball from Anne Patricio and then threw to first baseman Martine Francisco, catching Palma off base for a double play.

UST had opportunities to close the gap but only managed to break through in the seventh inning. Pinch hitter Jenny Mae Teves and reigning Rookie of the Year Helga Campos combined for the Tiger Softbelles' lone run. Teves, who came in for Palma, smashed a double before scoring off a single from Campos.

Valino sealed the victory with a pinpoint pitch to Shenna Mae Europa, which was cleanly fielded by third baseman Generose Torremocha. The San Miguel National High School product allowed just one run on three hits in her three-inning relief appearance while striking out three.

Pasco was credited with the win after holding UST scoreless through four innings, conceding only two hits while striking out three batters.

For UST, Campos was the lone bright spot with one hit and one RBI. Chang absorbed the loss after allowing two earned runs on three hits, all in the fourth inning. Mary Jane Beronilla surrendered UP’s insurance runs in the seventh inning, sealing the Fighting Maroons' dominant performance.


Teams    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E

UP    0    0    0    4    0    0    2    6    7    0

UST    0    0    0    0    0    0    1    1    5    2

La Salle, UST seek better postseason positioning

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Volleyball Standings

Women
NU 8 1
FEU 6 3
UST 5 3
DLSU 5 3
UP 4 5
AdU 3 5
Ateneo 3 5
UE 0 9

Men
FEU 9 0
NU 7 2
Ateneo 5 3
DLSU 5 3
UST 4 4
AdU 2 6
UP 2 7
UE 0 9

Games Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – DLSU vs UST (Men)
11 a.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Women)
5 p.m. – DLSU vs UST (Women)

DE LA SALLE and University of Santo Tomas go for a piece of second place today (Saturday) in the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Both teams are recipients from defending champion National University's shock loss to University of the Philippines last Wednesday, as this season is now assured of a Final Four format.

Far Eastern University, which defeated University of the East also last Wednesday, currently sits in solo second with a 6-3 card.

Expect the Lady Spikers and the Tigresses, both holding 5-3 records, to go all out in the 5 p.m. contest to catch up to the Lady Tamaraws at No. 2.

"Kailangan lang namin matutunang mag-enjoy especially when we’re up. Kapag gitgitan, at least meron kaming paghuhugutan sa mga situation na dapat mas matibay yung mga decision-making. Doon na kami nakafocus somehow sa maturity ng team as a whole," said coach Kungfu Reyes as UST tries to arrest a two-match slide.

(“We just need to learn how to enjoy the game, especially when we’re ahead. When the match gets tight, at least we have something to draw from in situations where stronger decision-making is needed. Our focus now is on the team’s overall maturity.")

The loser will drop to fourth place and will now only hold a one-game lead over the Fighting Maroons (4-5) in the race for the last Final Four spot.

With UP making a strong push for the No. 4 spot, Ateneo and Adamson University, both sporting 3-5 slates, are expected to play with a sense of urgency to remain in the Final Four chase at 1 p.m.

The Blue Eagles were coming off a week-long rest following an energy-sapping five-set win over the Fighting Maroons.

The Lady Falcons, on the other hand, opened the second round with a straight set romp of the Lady Warriors.

"It will be a good test for us because we are on the same path, and now we'll cross and clash for positioning. We need to think match by match, set by set, and point by point, and now our next match against Adamson is probably our most important game of the season. We need to think, focus, and prepare properly," said Ateneo coach Sergio Veloso.

Despite a challenging start of the Shai Nitura era, the Lady Falcons remain upbeat to have a better performance at this stage of the season to have a shot at the Final Four.

"Number one thing, we must hope for the best and then work hard for it. Kasi for me naman, walang imposible, we’ll continually encourage lang yung mga bata to work for it talaga kasi doon kami magsstart ‘eh so that na every game, kaya namin ipanalo. We’ll always rely also kung ano will ni Lord for this team kasi marami kami natutunan sa mga nangyayari, but we’ll still hope for the best and kailangan namin na we’ll give our best everytime rin," Adamson coach JP Yude said.

(“The number one thing is that we must hope for the best and work hard for it. For me, nothing is impossible. We’ll keep encouraging the players to really work for it because that’s where it all starts—so that we can win every game. We will also rely on God’s will for this team because we’ve learned a lot from everything that has happened. But no matter what, we’ll still hope for the best and make sure to give our best every time.")

In the men's division, De La Salle and UST, separated by one game in the race for the No. 4 spot, clash in the 9 a.m. opener.

Ateneo, also a game ahead of UST, plays Adamson at 11 a.m.

The Green Spikers and the Blue Eagles are in joint third at 5-3, while the Golden Spikers, who are mired on a three-match skid, are now outside the top four range with a 4-4 slate.

"Paghahandaan namin every game, kahit pa natatalo UST over the past games, alam namin kalibre nila kaya paghahandaan namin. We make plans for every game and we see to it na mareach yung gusto namin mangyari. No expectations namin, basta expect na we'll fight for every point sa laro na 'yon," said De La Salle coach Jose Roque.

(“We will prepare for every game. Even though UST has been losing in their past matches, we know their caliber, so we will be ready. We make plans for every game and ensure that we achieve what we want to happen. We have no expectations, but one thing’s for sure—we will fight for every point in that match.")

Coach Vince Mangulabnan, on the other hand, is pushing his troops very hard as he tries to steer Ateneo back to the Final Four after missing the bus in the past two seasons.

"Sabi ko nga sa kanila na this past week, hindi na tayo uulit or we won't make the same mistake of the past two years. Every game, aaralin namin nang maigi. Every game, nakafocus kami on the game itself. Sabi rin nila na pagttrabahuan namin bawat game para sa Final Four kasi nung past two years, nakafocus kami agad sa dulo 'eh. Pag nakatingin ka kasi sa dulo, madadapa at madadapa ka talaga. Pero ngayon, yung bumpy roads na papagdadaanan namin, sama-sama naming dadaanan ito," said Mangulabnan.

(“I told them that this past week, we won’t repeat the same mistakes of the past two years. We will study every game carefully and stay focused on the game itself. They also said that we will work hard for every match to reach the Final Four because in the past two years, we were too focused on the end goal. When you look too far ahead, you’re bound to stumble. But this time, we’ll face every bumpy road together.")

At 2-6, the Falcons are three games out of the last Final Four slot, but coach Raffy Mosuela is not giving up on the season.

"Yung mga previous games namin na mga 'almost,' doon ako tumitingin ng positive na kailangan namin puro polishing na lang para yung mga 'almost' na iyon, makuha na namin yung game or yung set. Yung consistency lang talaga across sa every individual skill need namin to get over the hump," said Mosuela.

(“In our previous games, we had a lot of ‘almost’ moments. I look at that positively because it means we just need to polish our game, so those ‘almost’ moments can turn into actual wins—whether it’s the game or the set. We just need consistency across every individual skill to get over the hump.")

UAAP High School Football title set for decider

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

Match Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

5 p.m. — UST vs FEU-D

DEFENDING champion Far Eastern University-Diliman and University of Santo Tomas will clash for the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football title in a rematch of last year’s final today (Saturday) at 5 p.m. at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

For the Baby Tamaraws, the stakes are high as they aim to clinch their 13th consecutive title and complete the school’s fourth treble in history.

Meanwhile, the Junior Golden Booters are determined to claim their first division championship and deliver UST’s first football crown since Season 74, when the Lady Booters last lifted the trophy.

Following FEU-D’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Season 87’s Cinderella team, PAREF Southridge, in the semifinals, head coach Jake Morallo emphasized the importance of maintaining their winning mentality heading into the final.

The Baby Tamaraws, led by rookie forward Jerriemy Biton and his league-best nine goals, are riding an 11-game unbeaten streak this season. However, beyond UST, Morallo knows their biggest challenge is avoiding complacency.

“I think all top four teams deserve naman makapasok sa Final Four,” said Morallo. “So sa makakalaban namin sa finals, pagplanuhan namin 'yung game, (at) pag-aaralan din namin 'yung strengths and weaknesses ng kalaban namin by that time. Prepare lang talaga kami sa training. Kailangan pa rin namin 'yung winning mentality.”

("I think all top four teams deserve to make it to the Final Four. As for our opponent in the finals, we will plan for the game and study their strengths and weaknesses by that time. We just need to prepare in training. We still need to have a winning mentality.")

While FEU-D watched from the sidelines, UST secured the second final berth with a gritty 2-1 victory over De La Salle Zobel.

As the Junior Golden Booters celebrated their hard-earned win, the memories of last year’s 3-0 defeat were nowhere to be found.

Instead, hopes are soaring behind standout goalkeeper Edcel Lauron and Spain-bound midfielder Joshua Moleje, as they look to finally make this season their moment of triumph.

“Syempre i-ready namin 'yung mindset ng players at 'yung katawan ng players,” said UST assistant coach David Basa. “Nakakapagod din 'yung game na 'to, so one-week recovery 'tong plano namin. Siguro pag-usapan namin kung paano namin paghahandaan ang FEU.”

("Of course, we will prepare the players' mindset and physical condition. This game was exhausting, so our plan is a one-week recovery. We'll probably discuss how we will prepare for FEU.")

Following the championship match, individual awards—including Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, Golden Boot, Best Striker, Best Midfielder, Best Defender, and Best Goalkeeper—will be presented to the season’s top performers.

Additionally, the Fair Play Award will be given to the team with the fewest disciplinary infractions throughout Season 87.

Kane anchors UST title run, ends high school boys title drought

c/o UAAP Media Team

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas showcased unwavering perseverance and dedication to claim the summit of UAAP high school boys' basketball.

For the first time in 24 years, the Tiger Cubs are golden once again, clinching the UAAP Season 87 Boys' Basketball Tournament championship by surviving the National University Nazareth School Bullpups in a thrilling 83-77 overtime triumph, Thursday afternoon at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

The last time UST celebrated a UAAP boys' basketball title was in Season 64 back in 2001, led by season MVP and UST lifer Jun Cortez.

The championship completed the Tiger Cubs' redemption arc after two consecutive fourth-place finishes in Seasons 85 and 86. It also marked their 12th overall title, solidifying their status as the second-winningest program in UAAP boys' basketball history.

Following the Junior Growling Tigresses' championship last Thursday, the Tiger Cubs' triumph allowed UST to achieve the first-ever 'golden double' in UAAP high school basketball history since the introduction of girls' basketball in Season 82 in 2020.

"Ang goal ko talaga as a coach is maraming bata ang matulungan to make it to the next level. Ipaglalapit ko lahat ng history na yan sa mga bata na natulungan namin, ‘yon ang importante," said Tiger Cubs head coach Manu Inigo, who joined an exclusive club as the fifth coach to win championships in both the NCAA and UAAP in the modern era, following Turo Valenzona, Joel Banal, Koy Banal, and Aldin Ayo.

("My goal as a coach is to help as many young players as possible reach the next level. I will connect all that history to the players we have guided—that's what truly matters.")

"Seventeen-point lead nga, pero walang safe na lead against NUNS talaga. Ang vision namin ay win it per quarter kaya wala kaming pakialam kung sino lamang, basta hanggang dulo. Swinerte kami nung overtime kaya kami nanalo," he added.

("A seventeen-point lead means nothing against NUNS. Our vision was to win it quarter by quarter, so we didn’t care who was leading—as long as we fought until the end. We got lucky in overtime, and that’s how we won.")

The series was tightly contested, with an average winning margin of just 5.6 points per game. NUNS struck first with a 77-70 victory in Game 1 before UST forced a winner-take-all Game 3 with an 89-85 win in Game 2.

Despite trailing by as many as 17 points, the Bullpups surged at the right time in the fourth quarter, forcing overtime after Jid Locsin split his free throws and Migs Palanca converted a putback off Mac Alfanta’s missed layup.

However, this late-game push came at a cost for NUNS, as Season 87 Best Foreign Student-Athlete Collins Akowe—who tallied 23 points, 24 rebounds, four blocks, and three assists—fouled out with five seconds remaining in regulation.

That proved to be the turning point in overtime. UST seized an early 80-74 advantage behind a fadeaway bank shot from co-captain Kirk Cañete and back-to-back layups from Senegalese forward Racine Kane.

The Bullpups mounted a final rally as Mot Matias, who replaced the cramping Locsin at the 2:52 mark, drained a triple to cut the deficit to 80-77. However, a free throw from Kane and crucial misses in the dying seconds secured UST’s triumph.

Matias had a chance to trim the lead further but missed key free throws, while desperate three-point attempts from Matias and Iver Napa failed to connect, sealing NUNS's fate.

Kane capped off his first UAAP season in dominant fashion, earning Finals MVP honors after averaging 19.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.0 blocks, 2.0 steals, and 1.6 assists over the three-game series.

"After Game 2, Coach Manu talked to me, saying that we need to finish it in Game 3. This is our last year, that’s why we really did everything today, both for UST and Coach Manu," Kane said.

Kane powered UST’s championship-clinching win with 28 points, 17 rebounds, two blocks, two steals, and an assist. Team captain Koji Buenaflor struggled offensively, shooting 5-of-16 for 12 points, but made up for it with 15 rebounds and six assists.

Charles Esteban added 11 points, four rebounds, an assist, and a steal, while Wacky Ludovice and Carl Manding chipped in 10 points each. Meanwhile, Cañete flirted with a triple-double, finishing with eight points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals.

On the other hand, heartbreak continued for Kevin De Castro's NUNS program,
suffering their second consecutive silver medal finish after also faltering to Adamson University in also a grueling three-game series in Season 86 (2024).

Palanca led the Bullpups with 21 points, 13 rebounds, three blocks, an assist, and a steal. Alfanta struggled from the field, shooting just 4-of-15 for 10 points, but managed 11 rebounds, two assists, and a steal. Locsin contributed nine points, three assists, two rebounds, a steal, and a block in the losing effort.

NUNS will bid farewell to key players as Akowe, Palanca, Alfanta, Locsin, Jedric Solomon, Iver Napa, Gab Nepacena, Tom Pillado, Allan Timbang, and Alnhumaeri Usop all graduate from the program.

The Scores:

UST (83) – Kane 28, Buenaflor 12, Esteban 11, Ludovice 10, Manding 10, Cañete 8, Bucsit 4, Solon 0, Acido 0, Cidanes 0.

NUNS (77) – Akowe 23, Palanca 21, Alfanta 10, Locsin 9, Cartel 4, Matias 3, Solomon 2, Nepacena 2, Usop 0, Pillado 0, Natinga 0, Figueroa 0, Lucido 0.

Quarterscores: 24-18, 46-33, 60-49, 74-74, 83-77

UST escapes with last semis berth in Rapid Chess

UAAP Season 87 Rapid Chess Standings

Women's
DLSU 10.0 [17.5]*
Ateneo 8.0 [13.5]*
FEU 8.0 [14.5]*
UST 6.0 [14.0]*
NU 5.0 [12.5]
AdU 3.0 [6.5]
UP 0.0 [3.0]

*Final Four

De La Salle University snatched the top seed from Ateneo de Manila University despite falling to its archrival, 1.5-2.5, in the final round of the UAAP Season 87 Rapid Chess Championship elimination stage, Wednesday at the Adamson Gym.

The Lady Woodpushers, who were in second place after Round 5, created enough separation in the standings with a dominant 4-0 shutout victory over the Adamson Lady Falcons in Round 6.

That result meant La Salle needed just one win or two draws in Round 7 to secure the No. 1 seed.

La Salle clinched it thanks to Rinoa Sadey's crucial victory over Ateneo’s Kristine Mae Flores on Board 3.

Meanwhile, defending standard event champion Far Eastern University rebounded from a rough start.

After suffering back-to-back losses early in the tournament, the Lady Tamaraws strung together four straight wins, culminating in a commanding 4-0 sweep of Adamson in Round 7.

Franchesca Largo was instrumental in FEU’s resurgence, delivering full points in every match during their winning streak.

In the final battle for the last semifinal spot, University of Santo Tomas edged National University, 2.5-1.5.

Entering the round in fifth place, UST needed a victory to advance.

Jamaica Lagrio (Board 2) and Christine Tabungar (Board 3) delivered crucial wins, while Princes Oncita secured the playoff berth with a draw on Board 4.

With the elimination round wrapped up, La Salle will take on UST, while Ateneo faces FEU in the semifinals on Saturday, March 29.

UAAP set to crown its HS Boys Basketball champion

c/o UAAP Media Team

Game Thursday at the Filoil Ecooil Centre

12 p.m. - NUNS vs UST

AFTER months of grueling battles and two hard-fought finals games, it all comes down to this—one final showdown to determine the princes of UAAP Season 87 high school boys’ basketball.

National University Nazareth School and University of Santo Tomas collide in a do-or-die Game 3 today (Thursday) at the Filoil EcoOil Centre, with everything on the line.

The Bullpups are gunning for their ninth overall title, while the Tiger Cubs are aiming to reclaim their throne with what would be their 12th championship in the division—ending a 24-year title drought in the process.

The high-stakes matchup at noon will feature a tactical battle between two of the brightest young coaches in the game—Bullpups mentor Kevin De Castro and Tiger Cubs tactician Manu Iñigo.

NUNS took the series opener, 77-70, on March 13 before UST forced a decider a week later with an 89-85 escape.

For De Castro—top protégé of Bulldogs head coach Jeff Napa—the key for the Bullpups is returning to the form that powered their dominant 13-0 start to the season.

"Sa amin siguro, like I said before the season started, we are here to learn and compete as a team,” he said. “We’ll take the win, pero mas tinitingnan namin ito sa growth and improvements—both individually and as a team.

“Yes, we’re in the finals, and it's a winner-takes-all match, pero susubukan lang naming gawin ang mga bagay na ginawa namin throughout the year."

Meanwhile, Iñigo—who previously led San Beda to the NCAA Season 95 title—knows Game 3 will come down to sheer determination.

“Well, kahit na ano pang sabihin namin ngayon, sabi ko nga, yung Game 3, diyan magkakaalaman who really wants it more, diba,” said Iñigo, now in his second year as the Tiger Cubs' head coach.

“Hindi pwedeng sinasabi lang namin na mas gusto namin, yun din sinabi ko sa kanila nung Game 2 na kailangan tayo mismo, we do it with our actions. So, walang statement win or anything, focus lang kami sa isang game na natitira,” he added, recalling how his San Beda squad triumphed over Lyceum-Cavite in the 2019 NCAA finals.

NUNS will once again lean on Best Foreign Student-Athlete Collins Akowe, who has been a dominant force, averaging 26.0 points and 24.0 rebounds per game in the series.

De Castro is also banking on his seniors—Migs Palanca, Chad Cartel, and Macmac Alfanta—to step up on both ends of the floor.

"Kailangan lang naming mag-adjust sa defense namin kasi we gave up 89 points sa UST—siguro iyon ang isang bagay na kailangan naming i-improve. Kailangan din naming mag-start strong, maglaro nang maayos at consistent buong game kung gusto talaga naming makuha ang championship this season,” De Castro added, aiming to lead NUNS to its first high school boys’ title since Season 82 (2020).

On the other side, UST will be led by Koji Buenaflor, the 6-foot-7 big man from Pampanga, who has been averaging 19.5 points and 5.5 rebounds in the series.

Racine Kane, who struggled in Game 2 with just five points and three rebounds after an explosive 25-point, 12-rebound performance in the opener, will also look to bounce back.

Buenaflor, along with Carl Manding and Charles Bucsit, hopes to cap off his high school career with a championship.

“Ayun, syempre I’m very proud and happy sa pinakita ng boys. Nag-mamature na sila, na-gegets na nila kung ano yung tamang basketball but again, sabi ko nga, job’s not done, we have one more game to prepare. And yun, tignan natin,” said Iñigo.

FEU extends UE's volleyball woes

c/o UAAP Media team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

NU 8-1

FEU 6-3

UST 5-3  

DLSU 5-3

UP 4-5

AdU 3-5

Ateneo 3-5

UE 0-9

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – DLSU vs UST (Men)

11 a.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Men)

1 p.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Women)

5 p.m. – DLSU vs UST (Women)

Far Eastern University showcased its depth and composure, sweeping the University of the East, 25-20, 25-20, 25-23, to claim the provisional second spot in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Wednesday night.

The Lady Tamaraws improved to 6-3, securing solo second place, just two games behind the NU Lady Bulldogs (8-1), who suffered their first loss earlier in the day against the UP Fighting Maroons.

Idle teams De La Salle University and the University of Santo Tomas are close behind at 5-3, currently in third and fourth place. They will face off on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Coach Tina Salak expressed her respect for the Lady Warriors, who challenged them in the second and third sets.

“Expected naman na lalaban ang UE kasi hindi naman nababago ang spirit ng UE pagdating sa games. Eventually, nagkakaroon naman kami ng adjustments, nakakasunod naman ang players. Sa game, nakuha naman namin yung gusto naming win but syempre may opportunities pa rin na namimiss namin,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.

("We expected UE to put up a fight because their competitive spirit never wavers during games. Eventually, we made the necessary adjustments, and the players kept up. We achieved the win we wanted, but of course, there were still opportunities we missed.")

Similar to the second set, the Lady Warriors started strong in the third, building a 13-8 lead. However, FEU’s depth and composure allowed them to regain control, closing out the match in straight sets after 94 minutes.

UE was within striking distance at 19-21 in the second set, but Jazlyn Ellarina delivered three of FEU’s final four points to secure the 25-20 win.

In the third set, Khy Cepada and Van Bangayan continued to fight for the Lady Warriors, tying the score at 23. However, Gerzel Petallo and Chenie Tagaod responded with back-to-back kills to seal the victory for FEU.

"Ako po kasi since day one tiwala talaga sa sistema kasi laging sinasabi ni coach na kapag gumawa ka ng sarili mong diskarte na wala sa sistema, mawawala ka eh. So ibinabalik lang namin yung sarili namin sa pinagensayuhan namin and everything will follow,” said Ellarina, who led the game with 17 points on 12 attacks, three aces, and two blocks.

(“Since day one, I have trusted our system because coach always reminds us that if we deviate from it and try to improvise on our own, we’ll lose our rhythm. So we just stick to what we’ve practiced, and everything follows.")

Petallo and Tagaod contributed 15 points each, with Petallo adding 15 digs and eight receptions, while Tagaod recorded 11 receptions.

Rookie setter Karyll Miranda also played a key role, tallying 17 excellent sets off the bench.

FEU will next face a stunned NU squad on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, UE remains winless after nine outings and is now on the brink of elimination. The Lady Warriors will take on a surging UP team on Sunday at the Big Dome.

Cepada finished with 13 points, 11 digs, and eight receptions, while Bangayan contributed 10 points.

Lone libero Angelica Reyes also recorded 17 excellent digs and nine excellent receptions.

FEU extends winning streak to nine in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L
FEU 9-0
NU 7-2
DLSU 5-3
Ateneo 5-3
UST 4-4
AdU 2-6
UP 2-7
UE 0-9

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – DLSU vs UST (Men)
11 a.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Women)
5 p.m. – DLSU vs UST (Women)

A spectator in National University’s first loss of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament just a game before theirs, Far Eastern University made sure to avoid the same fate in the men’s division.

The Tamaraws withstood a third set hiccup by the winless University of the East Red Warriors, taking a 25-19, 25-17, 23-25, 25-18 victory to stay undefeated in the UAAP men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

FEU’s unbeaten run is now currently at 9-0 with reigning champion NU as its next opponent on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“Yung second round talaga, lahat ng teams pupukpok para makuha ‘yung match syempre. ‘Yung third set namin medyo talagang malayo lang ang score kaya ang hirap habulin. Buti nakapag cope up kami nung fourth set,” said Tamaraws head coach Eddieson Orcullo.

The Tamaraws erased a 19-12 deficit in the third set by the Red Warriors, inching within 23-24, but Isaiah Roca’s off-the-block hit extended the match for UE.

FEU was not to be denied in the fourth frame though as Doula Ndongala and Dryx Saavedra linked up for a 8-2 finisher for the win in one hour and 56 minutes.

“I want to thank my coaches for giving me the opportunity to play. We should not stop despite our undefeated record, we need to focus more this second round,” said the Congolese middle blocker Ndongala, who had a team-high 14 points on nine spikes, four blocks, and an ace.

Ariel Cacao steered the Tamaraws’ offense with 21 excellent sets as Saavedra and Lirick Mendoza made 13 points apiece.

Mikko Espartero also tallied 12 points and 13 excellent receptions in the win.

This ninth loss by the Red Warriors pushed them on the brink of elimination at 0-9. This is also their 16th straight defeat dating back to the second round of Season 86.

New starters Xjhann Camaymayan and Isaiah Roca led UE’s uprising with 15 points each while Raquim Aceron added 11 points and 34 excellent receptions.

UE continues its pursuit of the elusive first win on Sunday as well against University of the Philippines.

NU claims first round sweep in UAAP baseball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

NU       5-0
DLSU     3-2
AdU      2-2
UP       2-2
UST      1-4
Ateneo   1-4

JHERICK Timban delivered in the clutch to help National University complete a first-round sweep of the UAAP Season 87 Baseball tournament, outlasting De La Salle University, 11-7, in 10 innings on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Timban, a product of Dasmariñas Integrated High School, shut down the Green Batters in the final three innings—including the crucial ninth and tenth—to lead the reigning champions to a flawless 5-0 record. This marks the first time a team has swept the first round since the tournament returned in Season 85 two years ago.

After NU plated four runs in the top of the 10th inning, Timban took control on the mound, striking out two straight batters across the ninth and tenth innings to snuff out any hopes of a La Salle comeback.

He stranded Dustine Rebustillo, the runner on second, after fanning Luke Villacruz and Miguel Agoncillo in succession. Catcher Kent Altarejos then put the game to bed after three hours and 20 minutes, securing the final out with a catch on Yuan Sumague’s foul ball to seal the Bulldogs’ victory.

"Actually, halos lahat ng laro namin sobrang dikit. This just showed how mature the boys are and kung gaano kalaki 'yung puso nila sa laro. 'Yun ang mahalaga sa amin bilang coaches—makita sa kanila 'yung gano'ng attitude, lalo na sa endgame, sa mga ganitong tightly contested na laban," said NU head coach Romar Landicho, praising his team’s championship composure.

("Actually, almost all of our games have been very close. This just showed how mature the boys are and how big their hearts are for the game. That’s what’s important to us as coaches—to see that kind of attitude in them, especially in the endgame of tightly contested matches.")

"Siguro, bigyan ko rin ng credit 'yung mga assistant coaches ko at lahat ng nasa coaching staff. Ang mahalaga, maipakita sa mga bata na sa bawat pagkakataon sa laro, kailangan nilang ma-boost ang morale nila. At 'yun naman ang ginagawa ng buong coaching staff," added the second-year NU tactician.

("Maybe I should also give credit to my assistant coaches and the entire coaching staff. What matters most is making sure the players understand that in every game, their morale needs to be boosted. And that’s exactly what the coaching staff has been doing.")

NU built a commanding 7-1 lead in the first six innings, with their top batters making an impact. Kiel Olazo, Altarejos, and Kenneth Maulit got their bats going early, putting the Bulldogs in a comfortable position.

However, La Salle refused to back down, slowly chipping away at NU’s six-run cushion. The Green Batters mounted a furious comeback, tying the game at seven runs apiece by the end of the seventh inning.

Tuting Samuel led the charge, collecting two of his three hits during La Salle’s sixth-and-seventh-inning rally. Meanwhile, the De Vera brothers, Liam and Lord Aragorn, combined for two hits to help push across six runs in those crucial frames.

Liam, the younger of the De Vera siblings, finished with five RBIs in the game. But under pressure in the extra inning, he struggled on the mound after taking over from his elder brother and Barry Oñas, ultimately falling short against the surging Bulldogs.

Two straight hits from the Maulit twins, Kenneth and Kevin, sparked the four-run binge from the reigning champions before Julius Cesar Soriano drove in a double to the left field that sealed the final score.

Samuel took the final outs to stop the bleeding for the Green Batters, but the lead was enough for the Bulldogs to complete the first round sweep.

Teams 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 R H E
NU 0 2 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 4 11 14 3
DLSU 0 0 0 1 0 3 3 0 0 0 7 10 2