Adamson extends softball dynasty with 13th straight title

c/o UAAP

The longest active championship streak in UAAP collegiate events continues for a 13th consecutive season.

Adamson University captured the record-extending title with another 5–0 victory over the University of the Philippines, completing a two-game sweep of the UAAP Season 88 Softball Finals on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons have now overtaken Far Eastern University as the winningest squad in the sport, breaking the deadlock with their league-best 21st championship.

The Lady Falcons also won 5-0 in last Monday's opener.

The San Marcelino-based squad used a strong start to fuel this historic victory.

“Siyempre, grateful and super happy no. And siyempre, thank you, Lord. Pinagdasal namin ‘to, pinagdasal ng players ‘to. And talagang I’m so, so proud sa lahat ng aking players; kasi nung tinanong ko sila bago mag-start ang season kung ano ang gusto nilang makuha. Nung sinabi nila sa ‘kin na gusto ulit nilang mag-champion para matuloy nila ‘yung legacy, sinabi ko sa kanila, being a champion is not easy, so you must be prepared sa lahat ng preparations na gagawin natin,” said long-time head coach Ana Santiago in this milestone for the program.

“Kasi, if you want to become a champion, then we will practice like a champion. And super happy ako na nag-step up ‘yung mga nawalan namin ng positions, nag-step up talaga ngayon. And kahit mga bata pa sila, pinakita nila na deserving sila this season.”

Down to one out in the first inning, Reyae Villamin sent a deep fly ball to right field that could have been an easy catch for UP’s Sathia Romero-Salas.

Instead, the rookie Fighting Maroon misplayed the catch, allowing Roma Mae Cruz to score the go-ahead run. Villamin was then rewarded with a run of her own after another defensive error from left fielder Laica Atlas drove in the second run.

Mae Langga, the season’s Best Hitter (BA .480) and Best Slugger (SA 1.040), then delivered her lone hit of the day—a triple down the right-field line past Romero-Salas—to spark the third-inning rally.

The eventual Season 88 MVP and Adamson team captain then extended the lead to three after a sacrifice hit to right field from Villamin.

Three straight hits from Mea Tubongbanua, Jhaycel Roldan, and MJ Libaton produced two more runs, which ultimately stood as the final score as the Adamson defense shut down UP.

“Iba talaga na nag-level up ‘yung kanilang laro. Pero sinabi ko nga sa kanila, at the end of the day, whatever you get this season, be proud of yourselves, kasi kayo ang dahilan kung bakit tayo mag-chachampion,” Santiago, the concurrent Blu Girls head coach, added.

The Fighting Maroons had a chance to get on the scoreboard after back-to-back hits from substitutes Erika Ocampo and Airess Libaton, but Glory Alonzo eventually struck out Cali Adriatico for the second out.

Alonzo, who was named the season’s Best Pitcher, then induced a long fly ball from graduating Reuel Caogdan that Villamin easily caught for the final out, sealing the shutout and the dynastic championship for the Lady Falcons.

Alonzo finished with five strikeouts in the clincher.

“Sabi nila malas raw ‘yung 13, pero pinatunayan namin na hindi, this is our lucky 13th. And nataon pang Season 88, masaya lang ako na bumalik pa ako. No regrets,” said the graduating senior, who ended her UAAP career with back-to-back Best Pitcher awards and two Finals MVP plums.

After two complete-game shutouts in the Finals, Alonzo ended her UAAP career with another Finals MVP plum, replicating what her Season 77 seniors achieved against the same UP squad (winning both games via 6–0 and 10–0 routs).

Langga also collected the awards for Most RBIs (13) and Most Home Runs (3) in her final season for the now 21-time UAAP softball champions.

University of Santo Tomas finished third for the fourth straight season, with freshman standout Anna Rose Macatbag winning Rookie of the Year honors.

De La Salle University’s Cassandra Inot claimed the Most Stolen Bases award with six.

Team    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E
AdU    2    0    3    0    0    0    0    5    8    0
UP    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    4    3

Adamson completes second round sweep in UAAP softball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Softball Standings

*AdU 7–1
*UP 6–2
UST 5–3
DLSU 2–6
Ateneo 0–8

* – Finals

Finals-bound Adamson University pulled through past De La Salle University, 3–1, to complete a second-round sweep of the UAAP Season 88 Softball Tournament on the final day of eliminations Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons secured the top seed for their fourth straight championship showdown against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, who earlier defeated the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Softbelles, 5–3, to claim the other finals ticket. Adamson finished the eliminations with a 7–1 win-loss record, relying on a masterclass in defense to take the victory.

“Maganda ‘yung naging response nila. Nakita ko naman ‘yung improvement nila — ‘yung mindset and approach nila, may mga changes. And at the same time, may mga nag-step up na rin. Importante ‘yan kasi ‘tong championship, medyo mahirap-hirap,” said head coach Ana Santiago, as her squad officially entered their 11th straight UAAP Finals appearance.

“Alam naman natin ‘yang UP; may hunger na rin ’yan eh. Kami naman, siyempre, kailangan naming ma-defend ‘yung title namin. It’s everybody’s ball game, hindi natin alam kung sino [mananalo]. Pero ang ano ko lang sa mga bata, ilaban muna nila ‘yung game and don’t think about the outcome,” the legendary mentor added.

Adamson started strong on offense, scoring one run in each of the first three innings. Neomay Mahinay finished with two hits and scored two of those runs.

The fourth-year standout hit a lead-off single to left field in the first inning before coming home on another hit to the same side from captain Mae Langga. Mahinay then drove in the Lady Falcons’ third run with a massive triple from Mea Tubongbanua in the third inning.

Earlier, last year’s Rookie of the Year Jhaycel Roldan doubled the advantage when her double to center field was converted into a run off a hit from MJ Libaton.

Mahinay ended the game with three of Adamson’s eight hits to lead the offense, while Langga, Mahinay, and Libaton each recorded one hit and one RBI.

With offense slowing down in later innings, Adamson leaned on its defense to secure the win, powered by its top-tier pitching staff.

Season 85 MVP Glory Alonzo started the strong defensive effort with a two-hitter shutout over three innings. April Minanga and Maryjoy Alpitche combined for a four-hitter, allowing just one run in relief.

Heading into a familiar matchup against UP in the Finals, Santiago wants her team to continue building on the improvements she saw in their lone loss against the same squad.

“Huwag nilang i-pressure ‘yung sarili nila. I told them to play freely; so, whatever it is, ang importante is ibigay nila lahat ‘yung meron sila,” Santiago, who also coaches the Blu Girls, shared.

The Lady Batters came alive in the fifth inning with two consecutive hits from April Gonzales and Julianne Moral. Cassandra Inot cut the deficit to two after driving in Gonzales, but Czarina Eder and Tiff Labargan could not extend the rally as Adamson’s defense closed the frame with two quick outs.

La Salle finished in fourth place for the third consecutive season.
TEAMS    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E
AdU    1    1    1    0    0    0    0    3    8    1
DLSU    0    0    0    0    1    0    0    1    6    1

Lady Falcons earn share of fourth in UAAP Women's Volleyball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Standings
DLSU 5-0
NU 4-1
UP 3-1
FEU 3-2
AdU 3-2
UST 2-3
Ateneo 0-5
UE 0-6

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum
9 a.m. - NU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UP vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - NU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UP vs FEU (Women)

Shaina Nitura and Frances Mordi led Adamson University as the Lady Falcons stunned the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses, 27-25, 25-22, 25-12, to claim a share of fourth place in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

With the win, Adamson tied the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws for fourth at 3-2, while the Golden Tigresses fell to 2-3.

“Lahat naman sila ay nagcontribute and sabi ko lang, follow the instruction so that hindi kami magkakaiba ng sistema,” said Adamson head coach JP Yude.

“Ang instruction ko lang sa kanila nung nakuha namin yung dalawang set is to be more locked in," the former Soaring Falcon added.

After grinding out the first two sets to take a 2-0 lead, the Lady Falcons didn’t need any dramatic comebacks in the third set.

Adamson dominated from the start, as Nitura, Mordi, Joy Aseo, Fhei Sagaysay, and Lhouiz Tuddao combined to build a commanding 20-6 lead, cruising to a one-hour, 21-minute victory.

In the second set, Adamson had to battle down the stretch with the score tied at 22.

Nitura sparked the finishing sequence with an off-the-block kill, Tuddao followed with another for the set point, and Nitura sealed it by blocking Xyza Gula at the net for a 2-0 lead.

“We never expect anything sa game but to try to win and play to win. This is the result of what we did and thank you Lord, we’ve been working for this. Talagang tinatiyaga namin every training,” said Nitura, who finished with 22 points on 19 spikes and three blocks, along with six excellent receptions.

Mordi added 20 points on 18-of-30 attacks, plus a block, an ace, and 10 excellent receptions.

Aseo, making her first start of the season, impressed with six points—including three service aces—matching Tuddao’s output.

Sagaysay contributed 12 excellent sets and five of the Lady Falcons’ 10 aces, a huge edge over UST’s two.

Both teams return to action Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena: Adamson faces undefeated De La Salle University at 1 p.m., while UST meets University of the Philippines at 3 p.m.

Regina Jurado led UST with 18 points on an efficient 17-of-28 attack, while Avril Bron added 10.

Angge Poyos, who had scored double digits in the first four games, was limited to just five points on 5-of-24 spikes.

Adamson fends off UE for a bounce back win in UAAP Season 88 Women's Volleyball

c/o UAAP

 

Games Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
9 a.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs DLSU (Men)
1 p.m. - Ateneo vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs DLSU (Women)

Adamson University shrugged off a third-set slip against the University of the East to secure a 25-15, 25-18, 21-25, 25-18 bounce-back win in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.

The Lady Warriors built a 9-5 lead in the third set thanks to strong starts from Khy Cepada and Bea Zamudio, but Abby Segui, Frances Mordi, and Lana Barrera answered for the Lady Falcons with a 10-2 run, giving UE a 15-11 lead.

Adamson, however, allowed UE to come back from 13-17 down, committing five straight errors that tied the set at 18-all. Cepada, Zamudio, Van Bangayan, Eljane Nogueras, and Shania Olmoguez then carried the Lady Warriors to a 25-21 win, forcing a fourth set.

The Lady Falcons regained their composure in the fourth as Shaina Nitura entered the court earlier than in the third set, where she had come in at 18-all.

“Very important win kasi ‘yung mga susunod na laban namin mabibigat na rin na schools so we needed this win kahit na nagkulang kami nung third set, regroup ulit at nakuha namin ‘yung panalo,” said Adamson head coach JP Yude after the one-hour, 45-minute match.

The Lady Falcons improved to 2-1, while the Lady Warriors remained winless in three games.

Nitura finished with 19 points on 19-of-35 spikes, alongside 13 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions, helping Adamson dominate in spiking (52-37), blocking (12-3), and service (8-4).

“Ngayon talaga wini-work on namin ‘yung chemistry namin na mabuo plus ‘yung errors talagang nagha-highlight sa amin. We’re gonna go back to training and trabahuhing mabawasan or better hindi magkaerror sa simpleng baga,” said Nitura, as Adamson committed 32 errors, nine more than UE.

After scoring just nine points combined in the first two sets, Nitura seemed on track for a UAAP career-low, but she extended her double-digit scoring streak in the third set as a substitute and added eight kills in the fourth.

Frances Mordi contributed 19 points, nine receptions, and seven digs, while middle blockers Eloi Dote and Lhouiz Tuddao added eight and seven points, respectively. Playmaker Fhei Sagaysay tallied 15 excellent sets along with 10 points on five aces, four attacks, and one block.

Adamson will aim for a second straight win on March 1 against Far Eastern University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, while UE will try to end a 17-game slide next Saturday against University of Santo Tomas at the Quadricentennial Pavilion.

For the Lady Warriors, Zamudio led with 14 points, 13 digs, and nine receptions, while Cepada and Bangayan added 11 points each. Angge Reyes contributed 16 digs and 11 receptions.

Adamson dominates Ateneo in straight sets to open campaign

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion
9 a.m. - AdU vs NU (Men)
11 a.m. - AdU vs NU (Women)
3 p.m. - UE vs FEU (Men)
5 p.m. - UE vs FEU (Women)

Adamson University stormed past Ateneo de Manila University in straight sets, 25-19, 25-18, 25-10, to open their UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball campaign with authority on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

With a two-set lead already in hand, the Lady Falcons left no room for doubt in the third set, launching an 8-0 run behind Fhei Sagaysay’s consistent serving and the attacking prowess of Frances Mordi.

Shaina Nitura then took over, powering Adamson to a commanding 16-1 lead by the second technical timeout, effectively putting the match out of reach.

“‘Yung instruction is to continue, keep going lang talaga. Kumbaga, it’s not a safe lead pa rin kasi ‘di pa natatapos 'yung game. So stick to the system, stick pa rin sa instructions so ayun nga keep going,” said Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude after the 79-minute rout.

Adamson displayed dominance across all facets of the game, outmatching Ateneo in spikes (39-18), blocks (12-2), and service aces (7-3). Even their 24 errors did little to slow down the Lady Falcons’ momentum.

Season 87 Rookie of the Year Nitura led the team with 16 points, while Nigerian wing spiker Mordi contributed 14 in the win.

“Gumaan po siya for us, collective effort na for us. Kapag off man ako, meron na siguradong sasalo sa akin,” said the history-maker Nitura on the Lady Falcons’ retooled roster.

Fhei Sagaysay added 13 excellent sets and a match-best three service aces, while rookies Abby Segui and Eloi Dote chipped in eight and seven points, respectively.

Adamson now faces its first major test when defending champion National University visits on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

For Ateneo, Alex Montoro led the Blue Eagles with five points, as head coach Sergio Veloso struggled to find the right player combinations on the court.

The Blue Eagles will aim to bounce back next Sunday against University of the Philippines at the same Pasay venue.

Adamson nips UE upset bid, postseason aspiration hopes remain

c/o UAAP

Games Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion
7:30 a.m. – UPIS vs FEU-D (16U)
9:30 a.m. – Ateneo vs NUNS (16U)
11:30 a.m.  – Ateneo vs NU (Women)
1:30 p.m. –  Ateneo vs NU (Men)
4:30 p.m. – UP vs FEU (Men)
7 p.m. – UP vs FEU (Women)

University of the East crept into striking distance, but Austin Ronzone and rookie Earl Medina delivered the biggest shots when it mattered most, helping the Adamson University Soaring Falcons escape with a hard-fought 56-53 victory over a winless and undermanned Red Warriors squad in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament, Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

Fresh off back-to-back wins over the same Red Warriors and the second-ranked University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers to close the first round, the Soaring Falcons carried their momentum into the next phase to secure their third consecutive triumph.

Clutch plays by Ronzone and Medina proved decisive, allowing Adamson to claim a share of fifth place with the struggling Ateneo Blue Eagles, both holding identical 4-4 win-loss records.

Adamson battled an undermanned UE side, as sharpshooting guard Wello Lingolingo served the second game of a three-game suspension, while head coach Chris Gavina also missed the contest after serving the second of a four-game suspension.

“We should be happy kung nasaan kami, only because hindi pa kami patay. Buhay pa and our head is above water, ‘yon lang naman yung gusto mo ‘eh na you just want to have a chance to move forward. Today was not that nice, buti na lang nakakuha kami ng panalo,” Soaring Falcons head coach Nash Racela said.

(“We should be happy with where we are, simply because we’re not out yet. We’re still alive, still keeping our heads above water. That’s all you really want — a chance to move forward. Today wasn’t pretty, but at least we got the win.)

Adamson hopes to get back on track as it guns for a fourth straight win against UST at 2 p.m. The Falcons beat the Growling Tigers, 69-59, in the first round.

In a tense, low-scoring payoff period, UE went on a 7-2 run — highlighted by two free throws from team captain John Abate and a putback by DJ Robles off a Toper Lagat miss — to grab a 50-49 lead with 2:55 remaining, marking the Red Warriors’ first and only lead of the game.

But Adamson responded when it mattered most.

Ronzone nailed a clutch right-corner triple, followed by a midrange jumper from Medina, restoring a 54-50 cushion with 1:42 left.

UE still had a chance to pull off the upset, but Abate turned the ball over with less than a minute on the clock and missed a top-of-the-key three-pointer that could have cut the deficit to one with 15.9 seconds remaining.

Matty Erolon iced the game with two clutch free throws, extending UE’s losing streak to 14 straight games dating back to the second round of Season 87.

“Masyado kami malayo when you talk about offense ‘eh. Yung average nga namin is probably down to 60 [points] again but the next team is averaging 70 points. Dapat hindi kami makuntento at dapat talaga mag-improve kami. We are still working on it at sana hindi pa huli at sana naglalaro pa kami when we see that improvement,” Racela added.

(“We’re still far off when it comes to offense. Our average has probably dropped back down to around 60 points, while the next team is averaging 70. We can’t be satisfied — we really need to improve. We’re still working on it, and hopefully it’s not too late. Hopefully we’ll still be playing when we start to see that improvement.")

Manzano finished with a double-double, posting 11 points on 5-of-10 shooting and 10 rebounds, along with three assists, two blocks, and one steal, while Manu Anabo contributed eight points, eight rebounds, four assists, and one steal.

AJ Fransman added seven points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while Erolon chipped in seven points and one rebound.

For UE, Abate led the way with 16 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block, while Nigerian center Precious Momowei tallied 15 points and 14 rebounds, adding two steals, two blocks, and one assist.

Meanwhile, UE looks to break through against De La Salle University at 4:30 p.m.

The Scores:

AdU (56) - Manzano 11, Anabo 8, Fransman 7, Erolon 7, Torres 5, Medina 5, A. Ronzone 3, Ojarikre 3, Cañete 3, Montebon 2, Demisana 2, C. Ronzone 0, Perez 0, Jaymalin 0, Barcelona 0, Tumaneng 0.

UE (53) – Abate 16, Momowei 15, Caoile 6, Lagat 6, Robles 4, Despi 2, Tañedo 2, Cabero 2, Rosete 0, Datumalim 0, Mulingtapang 0, Cruz-Dumont 0.

Quarterscores: 21-17, 36-28, 47-43, 56-53.

Apag, Etang spark Adamson into a bounce-back triumph

c/o UAAP

Games Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion
7:30 a.m. – DLSZ vs NUNS (16U)
9:30 a.m. – UPIS vs FEU-D (16U)
11:30 a.m.  – DLSU vs NU (Women)
1:30 p.m. – DLSU vs NU (Men)
4:30 p.m. – UP vs FEU (Men)
7 p.m. – UP vs FEU (Women)

Adamson University shackled a winless University of the East, 54-43, to return to the win column in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament on Saturday afternoon at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City.

Looking to bounce back from a 51-69 setback against defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs last Wednesday, the Lady Falcons leaned once again on the Gilas Pilipinas Women 3x3 duo of Cheska Apag and Elaine Etang.

The duo sparked a dominant start, powering Adamson to an 18-point, 28-10 halftime lead — a deficit the Lady Warriors struggled to overcome.

With the wire-to-wire triumph, Adamson secured solo fifth place in the eight-team field, improving to a 2-3 record for solo fifth.

“I think part lang talaga sa game plan namin ‘yon na right from the get go, pick up na agad sa defense namin kaagad. I think and I believe na nakikita naman sa stats na defense talaga yung bread and butter ng team namin. We’re number three in terms of defensive stats UAAP as far as we know, kaya we’re there to capitalize on our defense talaga,” Lady Falcons head coach Jed Colonia said.

In the third quarter, UE rallied behind the trio of Aliyah Ronquillo, Moana Vacalares, and Syvil Onate, who took turns sparking a 15-4 Lady Warriors run that cut the deficit from 33-14 to eight at 37-29 with 3:13 left in the frame.

However, Apag knocked down a three-pointer before Etang converted a highly contested layup, restoring a 13-point, 42-29 cushion for Adamson heading into the final period.

That proved to be all the breathing room the Lady Falcons needed. Two consecutive layups by Etang and Season 82 Girls Basketball MVP Cris Padilla, a midrange jumper and layup by Angeline Alaba, and an inside basket by Nigerian center Kemi Adeshina built a decisive 52-32 lead with less than 4:30 remaining — effectively sealing Adamson’s comeback triumph.

Apag led the way with 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting, adding four rebounds, three steals, and one assist, while Etang contributed 10 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals despite shooting 5-of-14 and committing eight turnovers.

Brianna Bajo made her presence felt despite scoring only two points on 1-of-7 shooting, tallying 11 rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Padilla finished with eight points, four assists, four steals, and one rebound.

The Lady Falcons aim to extend their winning ways when they face the still-unbeaten University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses next Saturday, October 18, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, UE’s struggles continued as they fell to 0-4, extending their losing streak to 14 straight outings since a breakthrough first-round triumph against De La Salle University on September 22, 2024, in Season 87 that ended a 40-game skid.

Rachel Lacayanga struggled, scoring nine points on 3-of-13 shooting with eight turnovers but still contributed five rebounds and four steals, while Onate also added nine points with three rebounds and three assists.

Vacalares recorded eight points, four rebounds, and four steals, while Kezza Buscar chipped in eight points, two rebounds, and two steals.

The Lady Warriors look to bounce back against the Lady Archers on Wednesday, October 15, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

The Scores:

AdU (54) - Apag 13, Etang 10, Padilla 8, Adeshina 6, E. Alaba 5, A. Alaba 3, Bajo 2, Agolo 2, Carcallas 2, Ornopia 2, Munoz 1, Meniano 0, Limbago 0, Mazo 0, Manlimos 0, Cortez 0.

UE (43) - Onate 9, Lacayanga 9, Vacalares 8, Buscar 8, Dalguntas 4, Ronquillo 3, Yanez 2, Lumibao 0, Gullim 0, Ramos 0, Gomez 0, Delig 0.

Quarterscores: 19-8, 28-10, 42-29, 54-43.

Adamson squeaks past FEU for breakthrough S88 women's basketball win

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
7:30 a.m. – NUNS vs AdU (16U)
9:30 a.m. – Ateneo vs UPIS (16U)
12:30 p.m. – NU vs AdU (Women)
2 p.m. – NU vs AdU (Men)
4:30 p.m. – Ateneo vs UP (Men)
7 p.m. – Ateneo vs UP (Women)

Adamson University held off a late rally by Far Eastern University, 57-56, to secure a breakthrough win in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

After setbacks against the UP Fighting Maroons and the Ateneo Blue Eagles, the Lady Falcons relied on clutch performances from Gilas Pilipinas Women 3x3 standouts Elaine Etang and Cheska Apag to finally notch their first victory of Season 88, giving newly appointed head coach Jed Colonia his maiden win since taking over from Ryan Monteclaro.

With the triumph, Adamson forced a two-way tie for fifth place in the eight-team field alongside FEU, both holding identical 1-2 win-loss records.

“Actually, lahat ng games namin, they all boiled down to the dying seconds. It’s a great feeling,” Colonia expressed.

"‘Yon yung point of emphasis namin for the past few trainings and the past few days na we’re there, we’ve given ourselves a chance to win. We brought our team there na may tsansa na manalo, but it’s the effort and the heart na gustuhin manalo in the dying seconds or the last few possessions that will decide the game," the former Soaring Falcon added.

Two consecutive inside hits by Elaine Patio and Yvette Villanueva cut the Lady Tamaraws’ deficit to 53-51 with 4:44 remaining. A split by Apag at the charity stripe, followed by a crucial Etang three-pointer, allowed the Lady Falcons to regain a six-point lead at 57-51 with 3:33 left.

FEU responded with free throws from Shemaiah Abatayo and Max dela Torre, and an ice-cold three-pointer by Victoria Pasilang, closing the gap to 57-56 with 48.6 seconds remaining.

Despite the late scare, the Lady Falcons held firm in the closing seconds.

A critical steal by Apag—who finished with a game-high six steals—along with key defensive stops prevented FEU from attempting a potential game-winning three-pointer.

Adamson claimed its first Season 88 victory after nearly surrendering a 14-point lead in the first quarter.

Apag finished with 18 points, six steals, five rebounds, and two assists, while Etang struggled offensively with 12 points on 5-of-17 shooting but still contributed six rebounds and four assists.

Brianna Bajo added six points, six rebounds, and one assist, while homegrown product Cris Padilla chipped in five points, three assists, two rebounds, and one steal.

The Lady Falcons aim to carry their momentum into a clash with defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday, October 8, at the same venue in Pasay.

Amyah Espanol led FEU with a near double-double of 15 points on 6-of-13 shooting and eight rebounds, adding two assists and one steal.

Pasilang finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and one steal.

The Lady Tamaraws look to regroup ahead of their matchup against the UP Fighting Maroons on Sunday, October 12, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

AdU (57) – Apag 18, Etang 12, Bajo 6, Padilla 5, Meniano 4, Adeshina 4, Mazo 3, Ornopia 3, Munoz 2, Limbago 0, Agojo 0, E. Alaba 0, Carcallas 0, Manlimos 0, A. Alaba 0.

FEU (56) – Espanol 15, Pasilang 15, Abatayo 6, Salvani 5, Patio 5, Villanueva 4, Lopez 3, Nagma 2, Dela Torre 1, Manguiat 0, Garavan 0.

Quarterscores: 24-16, 33-30, 49-44, 57-56

Adamson escapes to maintain unbeaten record, joins NUNS atop UAAP Girls Volleyball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 High School Girls’ Volleyball Standings
NUNS 3-0
AdU 3-0
DLSZ 2-1
UPIS 2-1
UST 1-2
FEU-D 1-2
Ateneo 0-3
UE 0-3

Games on Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym
Girls (Court 1)
9 a.m. – UPIS vs. NUNS
11 a.m. – DLSZ vs. FEU-D
1 p.m. – AdU vs. Ateneo
3 p.m. – UE vs. UST

Boys (Court 2)
9 a.m. – DLSZ vs. UST
11 a.m. – Ateneo vs. NUNS
1 p.m. – UPIS vs. UE
3 p.m. – FEU-D vs. AdU

ADAMSON University pulled off a dramatic reverse sweep of University of Santo Tomas, while National University–Nazareth School kept its perfect record intact with a win over Far Eastern University–Diliman in the UAAP Season 88 High School Girls’ Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at Paco Arena.

The Lady Baby Falcons refused to fold, clawing back to outlast the Junior Golden Tigresses, 18-25, 15-25, 25-23, 27-25, 15-11, to seize a share of first place.

After erasing a six-point deficit in the fourth set to force a decider, Adamson surged in the fifth, racing to an 8-2 lead behind Ellaine Gonzalvo’s relentless swings and Seanne Ordonio’s steady net defense.

UST showed grit, however, capitalizing on Adamson’s attack errors and leaning on Jezel Silvestre to trim the deficit to just two, 9-11. But the Lady Baby Falcons held on as Elaine Garces executed a crafty 1-2 play to reach match point, with Francheska Adem providing the final touch to complete the comeback.

“Based on the situation… sobrang hirap kami talaga sa first and second set. Sabi ko sa mga bata, ‘Kaya natin manalo. Kaya natin, matatrabaho natin. Balik tayo doon sa pinag-aralan natin, sa training natin, and then kailangan lang natin i-execute nang maayos’. So na-execute naman nang maayos [at] tinapangan ng mga bata especially ‘yung puso tsaka ‘yung mind talaga nila is maayos,” said Adamson head coach JP Yude.

“Itong game na ‘to is napakalaking boost talaga sa confidence ng mga bata kasi sa unang part, down na eh. Nada-down na sila eh. So ngayon, nakita na nila capability nila na kaya nila manalo kahit ang lalaki ng mga kalaban namin then ang lalakas din, ang gaganda nila mag-serve,” he added.

Gonzalvo proved unstoppable for the Lady Baby Falcons, scoring 22 points on 20 attacks and adding 11 digs. Kristal Martin contributed 17 markers, including three service aces, eight digs, and four receptions, while Adem added 15 points in the two-hour contest. Garces orchestrated the offense with 19 excellent sets, as libero Maegan Pineda anchored the defense with 18 digs.

Pelaez led the Junior Golden Tigresses with 17 points on 14 attacks and two aces, while Kim Rubin and Silvestre added 14 and 13 markers, respectively. UST dropped to 1-2, tying FEU-Diliman for fifth place.

Earlier, defending champion NUNS overcame a slow start to subdue FEU-D, 17-25, 25-12, 25-21, 25-17.

“Kailangan namin maayos siguro ‘yung discipline pagdating sa game from start to end, kailangan nandun pa rin [and] same intensity,” said NUNS head coach Karl Dimaculangan.

“Actually, sobrang challenging sa amin kasi parang five players [from the team] kasama rin sa Asian Youth Games so ‘yung training medyo hati pa. So ‘yun ‘yung kailangan naming ma-balance, ‘yung preparation ng UAAP sa next game, and ‘yung preparation namin sa Asian Youth Games,” he added.

The Lady Bullpups took control in the fourth set, stringing together eight straight points to build a 17-10 lead, fueled by attacks from Diza Berayo and a pair of aces from Akeyla Bartolabac. FEU-D could not recover, as Bartolabac’s off-the-block attack brought NUNS to match point at 24-16. A brief reception error allowed FEU-D a point, but Berayo quickly sealed the win with a kill through the block.

Berayo led the Lady Bullpups with a season-best 26 points on 24 kills and eight digs. Jhaynna Bulandres added 13 points on nine attacks with three aces, while libero Atasha Doroja anchored the defense with 15 excellent digs in the one-hour, 34-minute contest.

For FEU-D, Ifunanya Udeagbala posted 20 points, including 18 kills and two blocks. The Lady Bullpups improved to 3-0, tying for the top spot, while the Lady Baby Tamaraws fell to 1-2.

Meanwhile, University of the Philippines Integrated School returned to the win column, defeating Ateneo de Manila University in five sets, 22-25, 25-20, 25-23, 22-25, 15-13, moving into a share of third place at 2-1.

Nina Abad led the Fighting Maroons with 18 points on 12 kills and six aces, while Elisha Capus and Anya Callo added 12 each. Gian Damian kept Ateneo competitive with 17 points on 15 kills, and Luanne Atienza contributed 15 markers with nine attacks and four blocks. Ateneo remained winless at 0-3.

De La Salle Zobel bounced back from its loss to NUNS, cruising past University of the East in just 50 minutes, 25-6, 25-8, 25-9. Jelliane Laborte spearheaded DLSZ’s attack with 14 points on 8-of-12 kills, five aces, and a block, while Justise Macasaet added 12 markers, including a match-best seven service aces, both achieved in just two sets of play.

The Junior Lady Spikers improved to 2-1, tying UPIS for third place, while the Junior Lady Warriors fell to 0-3.

Ray Allen Torres' game-winner lifts Adamson over UP

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Standings
Ateneo 2-0
UST 1-0
NU 1-0
DLSU 1-0
AdU 1-1
FEU 0-1
UP 0-2
UE 0-2

Games on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum
8 a.m. – NU vs FEU (16U)
10 a.m. – UST vs DLSU (16U)
12 p.m. – NU vs FEU (Women)
2 p.m. – NU vs FEU (Men)
4:30 p.m. – UST vs DLSU (Men)
7 p.m. – UST vs DLSU (Women)

Ray Allen Torres lived up to his name, draining the game-winning triple to lift Adamson University over the University of the Philippines, 62-59, in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

With the game tied at 59 following Harold Alarcon’s lay-in with 22.2 seconds left, Soaring Falcons head coach Nash Racela called a timeout to draw up a final play.

Adamson opted to push the ball the length of the floor, starting the possession with Matty Erolon before giving it to Torres for the last shot.

Faced with tight defense from Gerry Abadiano, Torres went one-on-one and pulled up from three-point range, giving Adamson the 62-59 lead with 2.8 seconds remaining.

“During halftime, that’s what we told the players, we have to grind this game out, that was really expected. From start to finish dikdikan. I don’t really know what to say about the officiating. Gulong gulo kami kanina, we wanted to adjust to the referees but medyo naguguluhan kami buti na lang ‘yung players were able to deliver,” said Racela.

“‘Yung last play kasi sabi dalhin lang ni Matty ‘yung bola sa gitna and then last five seconds ibigay sa akin pero nung nasa akin na ‘yung bola, block out na lahat, tinanggal ko lahat ng emotions ko, nag-focus lang ako sa tira ko,” said Torres, who finished with 10 points.

With no timeouts left, UP handed the ball to Terrence Fortea, but he could not get off a proper shot, leaving the reigning champions at 0-2—their worst start since Season 79, when they opened 0-3. The Fighting Maroons had also lost their opener to the UST Growling Tigers, 87-67.

Adamson, meanwhile, leveled its record to 1-1, bouncing back from a narrow 60-58 defeat to the De La Salle Green Archers in their opener. The Soaring Falcons aim to carry this momentum into their matchup with Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

"This first week is very challenging for us," said Racela. "Hopefully, we play well on Sunday."

Adamson built a 10-point lead early in the payoff period, 49-39, but UP fought back to tie it at 57, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

AJ Fransman contributed 10 points and eight rebounds for Adamson, while Cedrick Manzano and Mathew Montebon added eight points each. Manzano fouled out with 1:30 remaining, and confusion followed as the team played the next 20 seconds with just four men on the court.

Abadiano led UP with 15 points, while Alarcon and Gani Stevens added 12 and 10 points, respectively.

The Fighting Maroons will continue their search for a breakthrough win on Sunday against the University of the East Red Warriors.

The Scores:

AdU (62) – Fransman 10, Torres 10, Manzano 8, Montebon 8, Anabo 6, A. Ronzone 6, Erolon 6, Barcelona 3, Demisana 2, Medina 2, Tumaneng 1, Perez 0, C. Ronzone 0, Ojarikre 0.

UP (59) – Abadiano 15, Alarcon 12, Stevens 10, Nnoruka 8, Palanca 4, Torres 4, Fortea 4, Bayla 2, Remogat 0, Felicilda 0, Belmonte 0, Yniguez 0,Alter 0.

Quarterscores: 15-13, 26-24, 46-39, 62-59

FEU-Diliman, Adamson claim opening day triumphs in U16 Basketball

c/o UAAP

Games Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena

8:30 a.m. – UE vs NU (16U)
10:30 a.m. – UPIS vs UST (16U)
1 p.m. – UE vs NU (Men)
4:30 p.m. – UP vs UST (Men)

PRINCE Cariño and Dwyne Enriquez combined for 55 points as Far Eastern University-Diliman rolled past Ateneo de Manila University, 91-80, in their opening game of the UAAP Season 88 Junior High School Boys' Basketball Tournament on Saturday morning at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena.

The win marked a strong start to FEU-Diliman’s redemption campaign.

Cariño, a member of the Gilas Boys squad that competed in the FIBA Under-16 Asia Cup 2025, led the Baby Tamaraws with 30 points on 12-of-18 shooting, alongside eight rebounds and two assists. Enriquez, a 16-year-old guard from San Mateo, Rizal, added 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, six steals, and three blocks, signaling FEU’s intent despite the Season 87 bronze-medalist core—Anton Lopez, Kierdy Victoria, Pat Pasinos, and Mark Dulin—moving up to the 19-and-under division.

“First sinabi ko sa kanila na kailangan natin magtrabaho ngayon pa lang. Kailangan natin pumondo ng panalo at kung kaya natin kumuha ng panalo, kunin natin para hindi tayo mamroblema sa second round,” said Baby Tamaraws head coach Muriel Garcia.

“Ayaw namin mag-relax yung boys kasi ayaw na namin maulit yung nangyari sa amin na twice-to-beat kami, na twice-beaten kami ng UST. Hanggang sa huli, gusto namin pumukpok,” he added.

FEU came out blazing, opening a 29-14 lead in the first quarter.

Ateneo, under new head coach Jeffrey Mangubat, fought back in the second period, with timely scoring from Sky Jazul trimming the deficit to 52-42 at halftime.

The Blue Eagles, who finished sixth last season, remained within striking distance early in the third period at 60-51.

But the Baby Tamaraws went on a decisive 17-4 run, fueled by consecutive layups from Cariño, to build a 22-point, 77-55 advantage.

In the fourth quarter, a four-point burst by Enriquez and an inside hit from Griffin Barlan extended FEU’s lead to 89-70 with 3:16 remaining, effectively sealing the season-opening triumph.

Prince Pineda contributed six points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and one block, while Dwayne Cañete added six points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Andrei Chavez and Griffin Barlan chipped in five points each.

Later in the day, Adamson University overcame a 28-point explosion from Enzo Parugganan to defeat De La Salle-Zobel, 85-69.

The Junior Archers, who finished fifth last season, trailed 22-41 in the second quarter but managed to cut the deficit to 39-46 early in the third quarter thanks to Parugganan’s scoring.

Adamson regained control as Kyles Abas, Seb Esma, and Fran Flores orchestrated an 11-2 surge, pushing DLSZ into a 17-point hole at 70-53.

A seven-point run by Adamson, capped by a Majiq Padrejuan midrange jumper, gave the Baby Falcons a commanding 77-57 lead with 7:05 left.

“Honestly, that’s what we’re really trying to do this year. Since the past two years, medyo hindi ganon kagandahan yung performance ng players but at least medyo umangat ng konti. But this year, we’re looking forward to doing something better, doing more, and doing well than last year,” said Adamson head coach Dante Tangco, who took over from Alex Barrera after the Baby Falcons finished seventh in Season 87.

Adamson was led by Iledan, who posted a double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds, along with six assists and two blocks.

Flores added 15 points, four rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block, while Uno Del Monte contributed 12 points, five rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

Esma added 10 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

For Ateneo, Domeng Ngo led the Blue Eagles with 16 points on 5-of-10 shooting, with three rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Jazul, the Season 87 JHS 3x3 MVP, was limited to 14 points on 4-of-10 shooting with seven turnovers but contributed six steals, four rebounds, and four assists.

Parugganan tallied 28 points on 8-of-14 shooting with seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals for DLSZ, while John Mindanao added nine points and one steal.

The Scores:

First Game:

FEU-D (91) – Cariño 30, Enriquez 25, Pineda 6, Cañete 6, Chavez 5, Barlan 5, Mampao 4, Daa 3, Isip 3, Mojica 2, Cruz 2, Calma 0, Maghinay 0, Madrigal 0, Desiderio 0, Manaloto 0.

Ateneo (80) – Ngo 16, Jazul 14, Dela Rosa 8, Hwang 7, Ylen 7, Bernarte 5, David 5, Castro 4, Divinagracia 4, Fresnido 4, Saw 2, Llavore 2, Cayabyab 2, M. Yoro 0, G. Yoro 0.

Quarterscores: 34-24, 52-42, 79-64, 91-80.

Second Game:

AdU (85) – Iledan 17, Flores 15, Del Monte 12, Esma 10, Padrejuan 8, E. Jordan 7, Vengco 7, Abas 6, Vargas 3, A. Jordan 0, Mangahas 0, Caindic 0.

DLSZ (69) – L. Parungganan 28, Mindanao 9, Rivera 7, L. I. Parungganan 6, Asis 6, Pangan 6, Delos Reyes 3, Dizon 2, Meloto 2, Quillo 0, Mercado 0, Dumana 0.

Quarterscores: 24-15, 46-36, 70-53, 85-69

Nitura explosion anchors Adamson upset

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament Standings W L

Women
*NU 10 2
DLSU 8 3
UST 8 4
FEU 8 5
UP 5 6
AdU 5 7
Ateneo 4 8
UE 0 13

Games on Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – NU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. – UP vs DLSU (Men)
1 p.m. – NU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. – UP vs DLSU (Women)

Shaina Nitura refused to let history go to waste.

The rookie phenom from Adamson University shattered the UAAP women’s volleyball single-season scoring record with a jaw-dropping 37-point explosion—and made sure it counted—by leading the Lady Falcons to a statement four-set win over the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 14-25, 29-27, 25-22, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, Saturday afternoon at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

With her 37-point eruption built on 31 attacks, five blocks, and one ace with 13 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions, Nitura not only set a new benchmark for scoring in a single season but also made sure it contributed to her team's momentum.

Her performance eclipsed the previous record of 312 points set by Alyssa Valdez in Season 77 back in 2015, as she now sits at 314 points with two elimination games still to go.

It was also her third consecutive 30-point outing, following a 36-point effort in a five-set loss to University of Santo Tomas and a 32-point explosion in Adamson’s shocking upset of NU.

Nitura now has a record-extending five 30-point games this season with two matches remaining.

Despite their Final Four hopes officially ending earlier in the day, following UST’s win over UE, the Lady Falcons refused to back down. Nitura’s relentless drive powered Adamson to its second consecutive victory, improving their record to 5-7.

“If I would reflect sa napagdaanan ng team, I’m very happy at very thankful kasi sobrang laking tulong nito for our upcoming seasons. Grateful ako na kahit hindi kami makakapasok ng Final Four, pero yung learnings na makukuha namin, sobrang laking foundation nito for us. Very grateful pero hindi pa tapos,” Nitura said, who added to her long list of UAAP historic accolades after tallying the most 30-point games in a single UAAP women’s volleyball season, rookie scoring record, the UAAP single-season scoring record, and the UAAP single-game scoring record.

(“If I would reflect on what the team has gone through, I’m very happy and very thankful because this has been a huge help for our upcoming seasons. I’m grateful that even if we didn’t make it to the Final Four, the learnings we gained will be a strong foundation for us. Very grateful, but it’s not over yet.")

Knotted at 19-all in the fourth set, the Lady Falcons uncorked a crucial 3-1 surge -- fueled by a Gerzel Petallo service error, a Mayang Nuique block, and an off-the-block hit from Nitura -- to build a 22-20 cushion. At this point, the pride of Cainta, Rizal was one point away from tying Valdez’s single-season scoring record.

Eager to make the most out of a historic outing, Nitura showed out in the clutch -- converting the last three Adamson points needed with a block on Congolese wing spiker Faida Bakanke and two consecutive crosscourt attacks -- to officially reset the record and clinch the Lady Falcons’ fifth win in 12 outings.

“I am very blessed na may mga players, especially si Shaina na binigay sa akin ng Panginoon to handle and to guide. I am very grateful, honored, and blessed to have Shaina and sa mga kasama niya also kasi wala namang Shaina kung wala naman mga kasama niya,” Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude said.

(“I am very blessed to have players, especially Shaina, whom the Lord has entrusted to me to guide and mentor. I am very grateful, honored, and blessed to have Shaina and her teammates as well, because there would be no Shaina without the team behind her.")

Nigerian wing spiker Frances Mordi provided 11 points on nine attacks with 23 excellent receptions, while Nuique also added 11 points on eight attacks and three blocks with eight excellent digs.

Rookie setter Fhei Sagaysay dished out 15 excellent sets, while Juris Manuel provided 10 excellent receptions.

After the eight-day Holy Week break, Adamson will return to action against De La Salle University on Wednesday, April 23, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

More importantly, Nitura’s heroics spoiled FEU’s first crack at securing a Final Four spot. The loss dropped the Lady Tamaraws to solo fourth place with an 8-5 win-loss slate.

FEU's postseason hopes now hang in the balance with two possible scenarios: If the University of the Philippines loses to De La Salle University tomorrow, the Final Four cast will be complete—composed of NU, La Salle, UST, and FEU.

However, if the Fighting Maroons pull off an upset against the Lady Spikers, the Lady Tamaraws will need to win their final elimination match against La Salle on Saturday, April 26, at the same Cubao venue to book their ticket to the semifinals.

Petallo paced FEU in the loss with 18 points on 15 attacks with 14 excellent receptions and 11 digs, while Chenie Tagaod tallied 12 points on 11 attacks with seven excellent receptions and seven excellent digs.

Team captain Tin Ubaldo dished out 18 excellent sets in the losing effort.

Adamson stuns National University, keeps flickering postseason hopes alive

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings
Team W-L
*NU 9-2
DLSU 8-3
FEU 7-4
UST 7-4
UP 5-6
Ateneo 4-7
AdU 4-7
UE 0-11
*Final Four

Games on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena

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

Shaina Nitura continued to run the show for Adamson University, and this time, her 32-point explosion finally resulted in a timely win.

The Lady Falcons staved off elimination by staging a monstrous upset over the Alyssa Solomon-less National University Lady Bulldogs, 25-23, 15-25, 28-26, 25-22, to pump life to its dimming Final Four chances in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

This was Nitura’s second consecutive 30-point outing and fourth overall, after unleashing 36 points in a five-set defeat to University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday. It was also a bounce-back performance by the 20-year-old sensational rookie after being held to a season-low 13 points in their first round matchup against NU.

“We praise and thank God for the win kasi kapag will ni Lord no one can stop. I’m very proud sa mga bata ngayon kasi una pa lang pagsalang pa lang nila unang point pa lang alam ko na na maglalaro sila na gusto nilang manalo sa game na ito,” said Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude after the two-hour, 22-minute battle.

This victory marked Adamson’s first win over NU since March 23, 2019, a 25-15, 25-19, 25-22 first round decision in Season 81, ending an eight-match losing streak.

Adamson also stopped a two-game skid to improve its record to 4-7, tying Ateneo de Manila University for sixth to seventh spots. They are three games out of the fourth seed with three games left in their respective schedules.

And it all happened because of Nitura, now not a one-man show and ably backed up by her teammates.

In the tight third frame, Nitura took it upon herself to give Adamson the edge by hammering a crosscourt kill, then a sharp backrow hit for the 28-26 win and the 2-1 set advantage.

Then, in the fourth, with Nitura guarded, rookie setter Fhei Sagaysay turned to her other teammates

Tied at 20 all, Jen Villegas gave the Lady Falcons back the lead with a hit off an overreceived ball, and then Eloi Dote followed it up with a solid block on Bella Belen before Frances Mordi made it three straight points for them, 23-20.

Belen answered but Erin Pangilinan threw her service long to give Adamson the match point, 24-21.

Although the two-time MVP was able to get another point for the Lady Bulldogs, Mordi completed the upset with a hit that pierced through the blockers for the win that allowed the Lady Falcons to avoid elimination.

“Syempre pampaboost ng confidence ng team na maniwala pa sa sarili namin pare-pareho, hindi namin dapat maliitin yung sarili namin kasi alam namin na may ibubuga kami every game and God’s grace talaga na nanalo kami kasi nung last games namin medyo pababa na talaga ‘yung kumpyansa namin. ,” said Nitura, who made her 32 points on 30 spikes and two blocks along with 10 digs and six receptions.

Mordi added nine points while Mayang Nuique chipped in eight points as well with the Lady Falcons also benefitting off the Lady Bulldogs’ 27 errors.

Adamson looks to stay in contention on Saturday when it clashes with Far Eastern University at the Big Dome.

Meanwhile, the Final Four-bound NU slipped to 9-2, absorbing its second loss in the last three games. Its first loss came at the hands of University of the Philippines.

Belen led five Lady Bulldogs in double figures with 19 points to go with 21 excellent receptions and nine digs, while Alinsug added 16 points.

Chams Maaya delivered 12 points despite not playing in the first set while Erin Pangilinan contributed 10 points.

Arah Panique, who replaced Solomon in the starters, produced 10 points as well.

The 6-foot-2 Solomon, who had 30 points last game against FEU, was sidelined due to a mild left ankle sprain.

NU looks to regain its winning ways on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena when it takes on winless University of the East.

Adamson at cusp of softball title

c/o UAAP Media Team

Game on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium
9 a.m. - UP vs AdU (Finals Game 2)
(AdU leads series 1-0)

MAE Langga stepped up in a crucial moment, propelling Adamson University to a 6-3 come-from-behind victory over University of the Philippines, moving the Lady Falcons just one win away from securing their 12th consecutive UAAP Softball Tournament title, Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.

The Lady Falcons will look to close out the series on Saturday at 9 a.m. at the same Malate, Manila venue.

With the game tied at three runs apiece and the bases loaded in the bottom of the sixth inning, Adamson needed a spark. Enter Langga, a third-year standout from the University of Santo Tomas, who was called from the dugout to pinch-hit for lead-off batter Neomay Mahinay.

Langga took the first pitch from KC Valino and then perfectly timed the second, sending the ball deep into left field and past Kate Nueva, allowing Mary Jane Libaton and Madaelene Domaug—who had come in as a pinch runner for Aliza Pichon—to score off a crucial double.

Roma Mae Cruz, who had substituted for Mae Tubongbanua and was intentionally walked in the previous sequence, added an insurance run in the sixth, scoring off an MJ Maguad sacrifice fly to UP right fielder Laica Atlas.

"I'm proud of them na may mga nag-step up nung kailangang-kailangan, kasi medyo bad 'yung aming start kanina. Ito na siguro ang isa sa pinakamarami naming errors sa first inning. Siguro may a little bit of pressure sa kanila," said head coach Ana Santiago.

("I'm proud of them because some players stepped up when it was most needed since we had a rough start earlier. This was probably one of the innings where we committed the most errors. Maybe there was a little bit of pressure on them.)

"Good thing is nakabalik sila. Sabi ko sa kanila nung nag-timeout ako—pinakamaaga kong timeout, first inning pa lang—na matagal pa 'to. Huwag nating intindihin ang score, ang importante, makabalik tayo. Walang bibigay at maniwala tayo na kaya niyo pang maipanalo 'to."

("The good thing is they bounced back. I told them during my timeout—the earliest timeout I've ever called, just in the first inning—that there was still a long way to go. I told them not to focus on the score; what matters is that we fight back. No one should give up, and we must believe that we can still win this.")

Jane Marie Sigue, who started for Adamson in both elimination-round games against UP, impressed in her UAAP Finals debut, limiting the Fighting Maroons to just one run over the next few innings after Season 85 Best Pitcher Glory Alonzo conceded two runs in the first.

Last year's Finals MVP, April Minanga, then took over in the final 3.1 innings, sealing the win despite allowing a lone hit from Generose Torremocha in the seventh. Minanga quickly negated the hit by anchoring a decisive double play in the next sequence.

A precise pitch to UP captain Nickole Dela Cruz led to a sharp play by third baseman Mahinay, who caught Torremocha on the throw to second baseman Maguad. Maguad then tagged out Dela Cruz at first base, ending the game in two hours and 40 minutes.

"Sabi ko lang sa kanila, sa mga sitwasyong kinakailangan, basta nagtitiwala kayo sa sarili niyo, hindi naman kailangang nasa first nine kayo. Kahit nasa bench kayo, ang gusto kong itatak niyo sa isip niyo ay 'I'm always ready when the team needs me.' Ayon ang lagi kong sinasabi sa kanila," added Santiago, who also serves as the head coach of the national softball team, the Blu Girls.

("I just told them that in crucial situations, as long as they trust themselves, they don’t always have to be part of the starting nine. Even if they’re on the bench, I want them to instill in their minds, ‘I'm always ready when the team needs me.’ That’s what I always tell them.")

UP initially took a 2-0 lead but struggled to generate offense in the following innings. Sigue and Minanga combined to shut down the Fighting Maroons, with Danica Aquino being the lone bright spot, tallying two hits in three at-bats.

Dela Cruz, who had blasted a home run against Adamson in the second round, was stifled in this series opener, going 0-for-4, including a strikeout in the pivotal fifth inning while leading off.

Valino was solid for UP through the first six innings before faltering in the bottom of the sixth, surrendering three crucial runs courtesy of game-changers Cruz and Langga.

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
UP     2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 6 1
AdU  1 1 0 1 0 3 x 6 10 2

Adamson, UP set for UAAP Softball Finals

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

8 a.m. - AdU vs UP (Finals Game 1)
10 a.m. - UST vs DLSU (Battle for 3rd)

Adamson University stands at the brink of history as they chase an unprecedented 12th consecutive UAAP softball championship.

But standing in their way, once again, is a University of the Philippines squad hungry to break their reign.

The best-of-three finals series for the UAAP Season 87 softball championship begins today (Tuesday) at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, where Adamson looks to extend its golden era while UP fights to rewrite its own.

The Lady Falcons are determined to maintain their position as the team with the longest active championship streak in the collegiate division and to surpass University of the East's 11 consecutive titles in high school boys' fencing, a competition that will take place next month.

Just last Saturday, the University of Santo Tomas ended the longest title run in the league, which was held by Far Eastern University-Diliman with 12 consecutive championships in High School Boys' Football.

The first pitch is set at 8 a.m.

Adamson secured the championship title in Season 85 (2022–23) with a series sweep, but they faced a challenging 0-1 series deficit against UP in Season 86 (2023–24).

The Lady Falcons clinched their 11th title with a hard-fought, come-from-behind victory, winning the final game 4-3.

Head coach Ana Santiago emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the present, as Adamson is aware that the path to the championship will not be easy.

"Siguro 'yung mindset nila towards the game; kung paano nila i-a-approach 'yung championship (games) kasi that's championship na eh. Lagi ko namang sinasabi sa kanila na basta huwag lang nilang i-pressure 'yung sarili nila and at the same time, trust the process. Magtiwala lang sila sa kung ano 'yung pinag-ensayuhan nila; pagkatiwalaan lang nila 'yung sarili nila. And focus lang do'n sa goal," the concurrent RP Blu Girls head coach shared.

("Mindset towards the game is crucial; it's all about how they approach the championship games. I always tell them not to pressure themselves and to trust the process. They should have faith in what they’ve practiced and trust themselves. We need to focus on the goal.")

"Mag-focus lang kami, one game at a time. Mag-focus muna kami sa Game 1 namin; huwag muna naming isipin 'yung ibang bagay. Hopefully, 'yung mindset nila, ma-i-ayos nila," Santiago added.

("We will focus on one game at a time, starting with Game 1; we shouldn’t think about anything else right now. Hopefully, they can find the right mindset.")

The Lady Falcons seniors, led by team captain Remelie Herrero and powerhouse hitter Alaiza Talisik, will take the field one last time in their UAAP careers to secure the championship.

Their top pitchers, April Minanga and Glory Alonzo, are ready to dominate from the mound.

On the other hand, the Fighting Maroons are eager to move past the disappointments of the previous two seasons, particularly in Season 86, where they won Game 1 of the series 3-2 but fell short in the decisive Game 3 during extra innings.

To claim their first UAAP title since Season 70 (2007-08), the season hosts must effectively execute the small details better than they did in their last elimination-round game against University of Santo Tomas.

"Preparation namin 'to for the championship pero hindi pa ko satisfied. Marami pang dapat i-improve kung gusto talaga nilang manalo. So, pagbalik namin sa training, mag-focus kami sa mga maliliit na concerns na dapat ma-adjust namin. Pag dating sa Finals kasi, mag-iiba na 'yan eh. One hit, two hits, OK na 'yon eh, basta no errors; depensa lang din talaga na maayos. And at the same time, may kailangan talaga kaming i-adjust sa opensa namin," said fourth-year mentor Ron Pagkaliwagan.

("This preparation is for the championship, but I’m not satisfied yet. There’s still much to improve if we really want to win. When we return to training, we need to focus on the small concerns that we must adjust. In the Finals, everything changes. One or two hits can make a difference, as long as we avoid errors; it’s all about solid defense. We also need to make adjustments in our offense.")

"From the start talagang aim na naming makarating ng Finals, so napaghandaan na namin 'yung gusto naming gawin. Basta hiling ko lang sa kanila, mag-one hit lang bawat isa sa kanila every game, OK na sa 'kin. One hit and then no error (sa depensa)," he concluded.

("From the start, we have aimed to reach the Finals, so we have prepared for what we want to achieve. My hope for them is that each player gets at least one hit each game; that would be satisfactory to me. One hit with no errors in defense will be key.")

Season 85 Athlete of the Year Nickole Dela Cruz aims to carry her strong elimination-round performance into the Finals.

Meanwhile, her longtime teammates, KC Valino and Reuel Caoagdan, will help anchor UP's defense as the squad's main battery.

Later in the day, at 10 a.m., De La Salle University will compete for its first podium finish since Season 81 (2018–19) when it faces last year's bronze medalist Tiger Softbelles.

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

Adamson dispatches UP in finals preview

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

8 a.m. - UST vs UP
10 a.m. - DLSU vs AdU

DEFENDING champion Adamson University found the spark it needed and capitalized on the opportunity to rally past University of the Philippines, 4-1, securing its seventh straight win in the UAAP Season 87 softball tournament, Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.

The Lady Falcons extended their winning streak to nine games, dating back to Game 2 of the Season 86 Finals, including four consecutive victories over the Fighting Maroons. A defensive miscue by UP proved to be the turning point, allowing Adamson to mount its comeback.

Down 0-1 after a solo home run from Nickole Dela Cruz heading into the fourth inning, the Lady Falcons took advantage of an error with just one out and Alaiza Talisik on base. Mae Langga hit a ball straight to UP shortstop Jam Rasco, who attempted to tag a charging Talisik. However, a miscommunication with second baseman Aila Subaldo allowed Talisik to advance safely to second while Langga reached first.

Mary Jane Libaton was intentionally walked to load the bases before Victoria Magbanua launched a deep drive to left field, bringing home Talisik for the tying run.

Jhaycel Roldan followed with a crucial hit to extend the lead to 3-1, scoring Chastene Jover, who had come in as a pinch runner for Langga. The rookie Roldan then capped the scoring spree,  making it 4-1 off a Mea Tubongbanua triple.

"Naramdaman naman nila siguro na mapapalaban sila sa game na 'to and at the same time, lucky for us na nag-step up si Sigue na na-hold 'yung hitters ng UP after that homerun. Isang inning lang naman ang kailangan namin para manalo, and naka-score kami ng four runs nung inning na 'yun," said Adamson head coach Ana Santiago.

("They probably felt that this game would be a tough battle, and at the same time, we were lucky that Sigue stepped up and held UP's hitters after that home run. We only needed one big inning to win, and we managed to score four runs in that frame.")

UP had a chance to respond in the sixth inning after Erika Ocampo’s hit and a fielding error by Adamson third baseman Neomay Mahinay allowed Dela Cruz to advance. Sensing the momentum shift, Santiago called for a second defensive conference.

Adamson regrouped and virtually sealed the win with a crucial double play—Roldan fielded a fly ball from Martine Francisco and threw out pinch runner Kate Nueva at second base, where MJ Maguad completed the play.

Jane Marie Sigue earned her second win of the season—both coming against UP—after limiting the Fighting Maroons to five hits and just the lone run from Dela Cruz. The rookie pitcher anchored Adamson’s defense, stranding five UP runners on base and preventing any late-game comeback.

"Nakikita ko naman na pursigido sila and 'yung mindset nila heading na sa Finals. Pero ang lagi kong sinasabi sa kanila, what is important is huwag silang mag-o-overconfident at magpapabaya. Kung ano 'yung ginagawa nila as preparation sa mga past game, i-improve lang nila at huwag nilang babawasan. At lagi nilang iisipin na hindi ito magiging madali, kaya kailangan pagtrabahuhan nila," Santiago added.

("I can see that they are determined and have the right mindset heading into the Finals. But I always remind them that the most important thing is not to become overconfident or complacent. Whatever they have been doing in preparation for past games, they should continue to improve on it and not lessen their efforts. And they must always remember that this won't be easy—they have to work hard for it.")

The Lady Falcons will aim for an elimination-round sweep when they face a determined De La Salle Lady Batters squad on Saturday at 10 a.m.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons and pitcher EM Viñas absorbed their second loss of the season. They will look to bounce back against University of Santo Tomas (2-4) earlier that day at 8 a.m.

Viñas held her ground for UP through the first three innings and into the fourth but struggled to recover after Rasco’s costly error. The third-year pitcher allowed her third hit of the game—the Magbanua drive that scored Talisik—before Joy Laurente stepped in to limit further damage.

UP tallied five hits throughout the game, with team captain Dela Cruz leading the charge with her solo homer in the second inning. However, the Fighting Maroons struggled to string together hits, leading to their second defeat of the season.

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
UP 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 2
AdU 0 0 0 4 0 0 x 4 5 3

Team effort anchors Adamson in victory

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

9 a.m. - NU vs DLSU (Men)
11 a.m. - FEU vs UST (Men)
1 p.m. - FEU vs UST (Women)
5 p.m. - NU vs DLSU (Women)

ADAMSON University overcame a flat start in the third set to secure a 25-20, 25-12, 25-21 victory over University of the East, and snap a four-game losing streak to kick off their UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament second-round campaign on Saturday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The trio of Shaina Nitura, Mayang Nuique, and Barbie Jamili led the Lady Falcons to a much-needed win, improving their record to 3-5 and breaking a previous tie with the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles. As of publishing, Ateneo was set to face the University of the Philippines in the final match of Saturday’s quadruple-header.

The win also asserted Adamson’s dominance over UE, who they defeated in the first round with a 25-20, 25-15, 25-12 decision last February 26.

“Sabi ko sa kanila, we’ll continue to motivate and encourage them. Kailangan yung sa second round kasi, maraming bundok yung kailangan iahon kasi mahirap na ‘eh. Pero sabi ko nga sa kanila, we’ll take it one game at a time. Focus tayo sa kada kalaban para mapagaralan nang maayos and kahit mahirap, walang imposible,” Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude said.

("I told them that we’ll continue to motivate and encourage them. In the second round, there are many mountains to climb because it’s getting tougher. But as I said, we’ll take it one game at a time. We need to focus on each opponent to study them properly, and even though it’s difficult, nothing is impossible.")

UE started strong in the third set, building a 16-12 lead, but Adamson responded with six straight points—highlighted by two Nuique quick attacks and a Jen Villegas ace—to reclaim an 18-16 advantage.

Beatrice Zamudio fueled the Lady Warriors’ final push, tying the set at 19-all, but clutch plays from Eloi Dote, Red Bascon, and Nitura sealed the Lady Falcons’ first win in five games.

Building on the momentum of a narrow first-set escape, Adamson dominated the second frame, racing to a 17-7 lead and never looking back to secure a commanding 2-0 set advantage.

Tied at 20-all in the opening set, Adamson displayed remarkable composure, scoring five straight points—capitalizing on back-to-back attack errors by Lauritz Ginoo and Van Bangayan, followed by three consecutive points from Bascon—to take the early lead.

“We really learned a lot sa mga nangyari [nung first round] kasi crucial yung games namin, nananalo kami sa sets, pero hindi binibigay sa amin yung panalo. From there, doon kami nagle-learn at para mas maging eager kami ngayong second round na hindi lang dapat sets kinukuha namin, kung kaya kumuha ng panalo, kumuha ng panalo,” Nitura said.

("We really learned a lot from what happened [in the first round] because our games were crucial—we were winning sets, but the victories weren’t going our way. From there, we learned and became more eager in the second round, knowing that it’s not just about winning sets. If we have the chance to win the game, we have to go for the win.")

Coming off a historic 38-point explosion against UP last Sunday, Nitura top-scored with 18 points on 17 attacks and one block to go along with five excellent digs, while Nuique had 11 points on eight attacks, two aces, and one block.

Barbie Jamili tallied nine points on seven attacks and two aces with nine excellent digs, while Villegas chipped in eight points on three attacks, three blocks, and three aces.

Fhei Sagaysay dished out 14 excellent sets, while Juris Manuel tallied nine excellent receptions and eight excellent digs.

The Lady Falcons will next face the Blue Eagles come Saturday, March 29, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

On the other hand, the loss sent the Lady Warriors to their eighth consecutive defeat in as many games.

Khy Cepada continued her scoring struggling but was still the lone UE player in double digits with 10 points to go along with six excellent digs, while Bangayan was limited to eight points on 8-of-38 attack clip with six excellent digs and six excellent receptions.

Riza Nogales contributed eight points on five blocks and three aces in the losing effort.   Nogales  had four blocks alone in the first set where the Recto-based side was very much in the game.

The Lady Warriors aim to achieve a breakthrough win against Far Eastern University on Wednesday, March 26, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Adamson secures finals berth in softball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

8 a.m. - AdU vs UP
10 a.m. - UST vs Ateneo

ADAMSON University clinched its 11th consecutive UAAP Softball Finals appearance in dominant fashion, unleashing an 11-run explosion in the third inning to seal a 16-0, three-inning rout of Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons remain unbeaten in six games, with University of the Philippines (4-1) and De La Salle University (3-3) still on their schedule.

The reigning champions will first take on the Fighting Maroons on Tuesday at 8 a.m.

"It's nice to be back in the Finals; 'yun naman 'yung first goal eh. Ang sabi ko naman sa kanila, kahit hindi naman natin ma-sweep 'yung dalawang rounds, what is important is to be in the top two. 'Yun naman 'yung goal namin," said Adamson head coach Ana Santiago.

("It's nice to be back in the Finals; that was our first goal. I told them that even if we don’t sweep both rounds, what’s important is securing a spot in the top two. That has always been our goal.")

Leading 5-0 heading into the top of the third, Mea Tubongbanua sparked the rally with a leadoff single to left, followed by Victoria Magbanua’s base hit up the middle.

A flurry of hits from the Lady Falcons, combined with defensive miscues from Ateneo, ignited the 11-run surge.

Alaiza Talisik contributed a lone hit but made a significant impact, driving in two RBIs with Neomay Mahinay and MJ Maguad. She also executed a sacrifice hit that scored Maguad in the first inning, finishing the game with a team-high three RBIs.

Tubongbanua added a hit and an RBI, while Magbanua chipped in with two hits and an RBI to bolster Adamson’s offensive outburst.

On the mound, Glory Alonzo secured her second win of the season, allowing just one hit—a single from Rocio Macasaet—while striking out Jessica Daquigan in two innings of work.

April Minanga closed out the victory with a flawless inning, retiring all three batters she faced and striking out Daniella De Asis and Noelle Franco in the third frame.

"At least maganda 'yung pinalo namin today compared sa mga nakaraan. So talagang naka-focus sila. Ang sabi ko sa kanila, must win today and alam naming na maglalaro kami ng championship. Yung mga preparation namin sa next games, looking forward na kami sa Finals," added the concurrent Blu Girls head coach.

("At least we hit well today compared to our previous games. They were really focused. I told them this was a must-win game, and we knew we were playing for a spot in the championship. Our preparations for the next games are already geared toward the Finals.")

Ateneo, now winless in seven outings, will try to avoid a winless season when they take on idle University of Santo Tomas (2-4) on Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Jessica Daquigan suffered a sixth straight loss, surrendering 11 of Adamson’s 16 runs—four of them earned—over 2.1 innings.

Macasaet and Daquigan, re-entering in the third, absorbed the remaining five runs, officially sealing Adamson’s passage to the championship round.


Team      1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E
AdU       1    4    11    x    x    x    x    16    11    2
Ateneo    0    0    0    x    x    x    x    0    1    4