NU secures return trip to Finals, ends UST's run

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
12 p.m.  – FEU vs NU (Men's Finals)
5 p.m. – DLSU vs NU (Women's Finals)

Second-ranked National University showed championship composure, unleashing an 11-3 finishing run to halt fourth seed University of Santo Tomas’ climb in the stepladder and secure a 20-25, 26-24, 26-24, 25-21 victory, booking its place in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Finals on Saturday.

Arah Panique and Vange Alinsug delivered the heavy blows in crunch time of the three sets NU won—all of them comeback wins—before a crowd of 14,334 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The back-to-back champions Lady Bulldogs will now gun for a third straight title against the De La Salle Lady Spikers, who swept the 14-game elimination round. NU, however, swept La Salle in last year’s Finals.

It will be the fourth Finals meeting between NU and La Salle in the last five seasons. Game 1 is set at 5 p.m. on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Lady Bulldogs reached the championship round despite a challenging elimination campaign in the post-Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon era.

“We are just happy that we’re here, we did our best for today’s game, and we’re just going to prepare for the next one. It’s still the same for everyone. We prepare, we do our best, and hopefully we get the championship,” said NU head coach Regine Diego, who will face her former mentor Ramil de Jesus for the first time.

De Jesus has guided the Lady Spikers to 12 championships and will be making his 22nd Finals appearance for the Taft-based squad.

UST looked poised to extend the match to a fifth set after building an 18-14 lead in the fourth frame behind the efforts of Xyza Gula, Regina Jurado, and Jonna Perdido. However, NU refused to be denied, closing the door with a decisive surge.

Alinsug spearheaded the rally, scoring six points in NU’s 11-3 finishing run, with support from Chams Maaya, Camilla Lamina, and Alexa Mata. The Lady Bulldogs wrapped up the win in two hours and 25 minutes, securing their fifth straight Finals appearance.

Presumptive Rookie of the Year Sam Cantada, who tweaked her left ankle midway through the second set, returned in the fourth and provided steady service during NU’s late push.

“Very happy kasi lahat kami pinagtrabahuhan talaga itong game na ito. Very crucial do-or-die game, very happy ako sa performance ng team at sana tuloy-tuloy siya hanggang championship,” said Lamina, who orchestrated the offense with 34 excellent sets, while adding three points and six digs.

Panique, who anchored NU’s comebacks from 20-17 deficits in both the second and third sets, led all scorers with 23 points on 21 attacks and two blocks.

Last season’s co-Finals MVP Alinsug finished with 18 points, 10 of which came in the final set, alongside 16 receptions and seven digs.

Middle blockers Maaya and Mata also stepped up with 14 and 10 points, respectively, combining for nine of NU’s 12 blocks.

Shaira Jardio, co-Finals MVP last season, delivered 25-of-30 excellent receptions and 24-of-46 excellent digs in the victory.

On the other side, the Golden Tigresses, who survived two do-or-die matches to reach the stepladder finale, settled for third place for the second straight season.

It also marked the end of Detdet Pepito’s 11-year UAAP career with UST, capping a decorated run that includes six Best Libero awards (four in high school, two in college).

In her final UAAP match, Pepito tallied 23-of-47 excellent digs and 8-of-11 excellent receptions.

Jurado led UST with 19 points, including two blocks, along with 12 digs, while Poyos added 16 points, 13 receptions, and 10 digs despite limited action in the fourth set.

Perdido contributed 15 points, 21 receptions, and nine digs, while Cassie Carballo dished out 35 excellent sets to go with five points and eight digs.

Alas stalwarts anchor NU triumph over FEU

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Standings
FEU 8-1
NU 7-2
UST 5-3
Ateneo 4-4
DLSU 4-4
UP 3-6
AdU 2-6
UE 1-8

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum
9 a.m. - UST vs DLSU (Men)
11 a.m. - AdU vs Ateneo (Men)
1 p.m. - UST vs DLSU (Women)
3 p.m. - AdU vs Ateneo (Women)

Alas Pilipinas members Leo Ordiales and Michaelo Buddin took matters into their own hands to ensure a traditional Final Four format in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Tournament.

Six-peat-seeking National University delivered a statement 28-26, 17-25, 24-26, 25-11, 15-8 victory, handing Far Eastern University its first loss of the season on Sunday in front of a roaring crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Bulldogs improved to 7-2, closing the gap on the Tamaraws, who dropped to 8-1 but remained in first place—now just one game ahead of NU.

Buddin and Ordiales powered NU’s comeback, dominating the final two sets to overturn FEU’s 2-1 set lead.

“Good game talaga. Both sides naman sobrang ganda ng pinakita,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin. “Pagdating sa dulo, natiyaga and ‘yung pasensya ni Buddin lumabas, naging maganda ‘yung resulta ng game.”

Buddin scored 14 of his 25 points in the last two sets, while Ordiales delivered 13 of his career-high 30 points in that same stretch.

With the fifth set tied at 7-all, Buddin and Ordiales took control.

Buddin ignited NU’s finishing run with a checked ball, before setter Greg Ancheta raised the energy with a solid block on Amet Bituin. Buddin followed it up with three straight points, then Ordiales took over, firing three of his own to cap off a dominant 8-1 closing run for NU, sealing the win in two hours and three minutes.

“’Yung decision-making namin, sobrang dami naming iniisip, parang nawawala kami sa sistema. Nung fourth and fifth set, ibinalik lang namin, sinunod lang namin ulit ‘yung sistema, and maganda naman ‘yung result,” said Ordiales.

Ordiales finished with 24-of-48 attacks, three blocks, and three service aces, along with six digs.

Buddin added 19-of-33 attacks, three blocks, and three aces, along with eight excellent receptions, while Jade Disquitado also shone with 12 points, 33-of-59 excellent receptions, and seven digs.

Jimwell Gapultos contributed 12 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs, while Ancheta orchestrated the offense with 34 excellent sets and added three blocks.

NU looks to sustain its momentum on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion against Ateneo de Manila University.

Mikko Espartero led FEU with 22 points on 18 attacks and four blocks, along with 21 excellent receptions.

Dryx Saavedra added 18 points but cooled off after scoring nine in the opening set, while Lirick Mendoza was limited to 10 points, all coming in the first three frames.

FEU aims to bounce back next Sunday against University of Santo Tomas on its home court.

NU rides on 32-point Cantada outburst to outlast UP

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Standings
DLSU 7-0
NU 6-2
FEU 5-3
AdU 4-3
UST 4-3
UP 3-5
Ateneo 1-6
UE 0-8

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – UST vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. – La Salle vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. – UST vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. – La Salle vs AdU (Women)

Rookie Sam Cantada fired a career-best 32 points, leading National University to a vengeful 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8 victory over first-round tormentor University of the Philippines in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

The Fighting Maroons had previously stunned the Lady Bulldogs on February 28 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, 25-16, 25-16, 22-25, 29-31, 16-18, a match where Cantada suffered a right shin injury in the third set.

This time, Cantada starred for NU, scoring a season-high 32 points on 27-of-52 spikes, three blocks, and two aces, while also contributing 18 excellent receptions and 13 digs.

“Of course, we’re happy, we count all the wins, and this is a good comeback for us. Hopefully, tuloy-tuloy siya,” said NU head coach Regine Diego.

“It’s a challenging time for all the teams, kasi mas mataas na ‘yung pressure, mas kailangan ng manalo, ang daming factors we are trying to manage, but the only thing that pushes us is if we play together," added the former Lady Bullpups head coach.

Cantada and Arah Panique combined in the fourth set to force a decisive fifth set.

In the decider, Lady Bulldogs setter Abe Pono led the charge with four points—two aces, a block, and a spike—while Cantada added four points herself. NU overcame a 2-5 deficit with a massive 13-3 run to seal the win in two hours and 10 minutes.

“For me po, collective effort naman po ‘yung nangyari. Hindi lang po ako ‘yun, kinicredit ko rin po sa mga teammates ko po ‘yun kaya ko po nakuha ‘yung points na ‘yun,” said Cantada, whose 32 points were the most by any NU player since Alyssa Solomon scored 34 in a 25-19, 25-23, 15-25, 17-25, 10-15 loss to La Salle in Game 2 of the Season 85 Finals on May 14, 2023.

The Lady Bulldogs bounced back from a loss to the Lady Spikers last Sunday, improving to 6-2 to retain solo second place.

Panique supported Cantada with 19 points on 15 attacks and four blocks, while Chams Maaya added nine points.

Pono finished with 21 excellent sets, five points, and seven digs, while Shaira Jardio contributed 17 excellent receptions and 17 excellent digs.

On the other hand, UP suffered its fourth straight loss, dropping to 3-5 and sixth place.

The Fighting Maroons’ last win was against the Lady Bulldogs in the first round. Jelai Gajero played her best collegiate game, scoring 22 points on 19 spikes, two blocks, and an ace, along with 14 digs.

Kianne Olango added 20 points, 13 excellent receptions, and nine digs, while Bienne Bansil and Niña Ytang each contributed 13 points.

Both teams return to action on Sunday at the Big Dome. NU will face Far Eastern University, while UP takes on winless University of the East.

NU reasserts itself with a UE sweep

c/o  UAAP

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum
9 a.m. - UE vs DLSU (Men’s)
11 a.m. - AdU vs UST (Men’s)
1 p.m. - UE vs DLSU (Women’s)
3 p.m. - AdU vs UST (Women’s)

National University came alive after a sluggish start to sweep University of the East, 25-19, 25-10, 25-19, for a crucial bounce-back win in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

Coming off a shock reverse-sweep loss to the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons last Saturday, the Lady Bulldogs started flat and found themselves trailing 8-15 in the opening set against the Lady Warriors.

However, behind Celine Marsh, Vange Alinsug, and Arah Panique, NU roared back with a decisive 17-4 run to steal the first set, 25-19.

The sophomore Marsh, who got the starting nod in place of injured rookie Sam Cantada, finished with 11 points built on eight spikes, two aces, and a block, along with 12 excellent digs and four receptions.

“I never really doubted Celine’s performance. I never really feel like na malaki ‘yung mawawala kapag may isang player na hindi makakalaro kasi I have somebody else to help the team. Tulungan lang talaga kami,” said NU head coach Regine Diego on Marsh’s first start.

The Lady Bulldogs never looked back, cruising through the second set, 25-10, and closing out the third, 25-19.

With the win, NU improved to 4-1, claiming solo second place ahead of idle UP at 3-1.

“Nag move on lang kami. Hindi naman doon (sa talo sa UP) natatapos ang lahat, marami pa kaming chance na baguhin at pagtrabahuhan pa yung susunod na games,” said team captain Vange Alinsug, who delivered an all-around effort of 10 points, seven digs, and seven receptions.

Panique also reached double figures with 12 points.

Cantada, who injured her right shin during last Saturday’s five-set loss to the Fighting Maroons, was in uniform but did not see action to allow her to recover. Still, Diego remains optimistic that the Dasmariñas, Cavite native will be ready for Sunday’s showdown against Ateneo de Manila University.

For UE, Van Bangayan paced the Lady Warriors with 12 points and five receptions, while Khy Cepada added 10 points, seven receptions, and six digs.

The Lady Warriors remained winless after five games and will try to break through on Saturday against undefeated De La Salle University at the same venue.

NU remains undefeated in UAAP Season 88 Baseball

c/o UAAP

Games on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

7 a.m. – AdU vs DLSU
* NU vs UST
* UP vs Ateneo
(* – Rule of succession)

NATIONAL University cruised to its third straight win and retained the solo lead in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Baseball Tournament following a 13–5 romp over Adamson University, Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The defending back-to-back champions remained the only undefeated team in the field at 3–0.

Rivals De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University are disputing the solo second spot, both holding a 1–1 win-loss record as of this writing.

Just as NU dominated its first two assignments, it was the Bulldogs’ defense that powered yet another victory.

After allowing one run in the top of the second inning, NU’s defense silenced the Soaring Falcons for the next four innings, holding them scoreless despite hits from Kean Matanguihan and Laurence Mercado, as pitcher Hilario Espina III stood firm.

The third-year hurler finished with just that lone Adamson run over six innings, allowing four hits and striking out two batters.

With their signature defense in full effect, NU’s offense eventually took over, extending the lead to 11–1 by the seventh inning, threatening to end the game early.

“These are mature players; so, tini-treat ko sila as mature people. Alam ko naman na mafi-figure out nila ‘yung game. Sabi ko nga sa kanila sa huddle, even though humahabol ‘yung Adamson, gusto kong maranasan nila ‘yon,” said head coach Romar Landicho, expressing his trust in his wards despite the late Adamson run.

“Kasi hindi naman lahat ng game madali. So, kailangan rin naming ma-experience ‘yung gano’ng situtation para at least masanay sila,” the champion mentor added.

Aaron Detoito once again led the offense, finishing with two hits and three RBIs in this statement win. Kevin Maulit had another multiple-RBI outing, ending with two RBIs after his double to the right-field line in the sixth inning, which all but sealed the result.

The Bulldogs will face the UST Golden Sox next, with the contest scheduled for Sunday’s second game.

Adamson, however, refused to go down quietly, mounting a late surge in the seventh inning with four runs on five hits against R-Kenshin Clamor and Gio Gorpido.

Ivan Jonson came off the bench to deliver a two-RBI double to start the rally, while fellow substitute Zerge Madarimot added another RBI, scoring Leonel Matanguihan to cut the deficit to 11–5.

Madarimot later crossed the plate on a play involving James Nisnisan, but that was all the Soaring Falcons could muster, going scoreless in the final two innings.

Adamson will try to bounce back against the DLSU Green Batters on Sunday’s opening game at 7 a.m.

Teams    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    8    9    R    H    E
AdU    0    1    0    0    0    0    4    0    0    5    10    3
NU    0    3    0    3    0    5    2    0    x    13    10    2

NU snatches second with UE sweep

c/o UAAP

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum
9 a.m. - UE vs DLSU (Men’s)
11 a.m. - AdU vs UST (Men’s)
1 p.m. - UE vs DLSU (Women’s)
3 p.m. - AdU vs UST (Women’s)

Defending champion National University made quick work of the University of the East, 25-20, 25-13, 25-20, to claim solo second place in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Tournament, Wednesday morning at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Riding the momentum from a straight-sets win over the UP Fighting Maroons last Saturday, the Bulldogs relied on Peng Taguibolos, Leo Ordiales, and Buds Buddin to secure their second consecutive victory and fourth triumph in five games.

With the win, NU broke a tie for second place with the idle University of Santo Tomas (3-1), improving to a 4-1 record ahead of a showdown with Ateneo de Manila University this Sunday, March 8, at the same venue.

“Siyempre, naging maganda yung performance namin, and nabasa namin kung ano yung set plays na gagawin nila. Gumanda talaga yung blockings namin talaga. Although mas marami yung service error namin, pero sabi ko nga, sa ganyang sitwasyon, kailangan mapantayan natin or malagyan natin ng mas maraming atake para hindi magkaproblem sa bandang huli,” Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.

UE started the third set strong, taking an early three-point lead at 10-7, but NU gradually regained control, leaning on consecutive attacks from Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba and errors by the Red Warriors to tie the frame at 17-all.

From there, the Bulldogs dominated, finishing the set on an 8-3 run — highlighted by two Buddin attacks, a CJ Nabora attack error, a running hit, and a game-winning block from Taguibolos — to complete their sweep of UE.

In the second set, NU raced to an early 16-9 lead and never looked back, as a Taguibolos block, two Nabora miscues, and a Buddin off-the-speed hit pushed the Bulldogs to an insurmountable two-set advantage.

Ordiales led NU with 14 points on 11 attacks and three blocks, while Jade Disquitado contributed 13 points on 11 attacks, along with 15 excellent receptions and three excellent digs. Buddin added 11 points, and Taguibolos also scored 11 points, built on six blocks, four attacks, and one ace.

Mukaba finished with eight points on five blocks and three attacks, while Greg Ancheta delivered 16 excellent sets. Jimwell Gapultos recorded nine excellent digs and eight excellent receptions.

After snapping a 23-game skid with a breakthrough win over Adamson University on February 21, UE suffered its second straight loss, dropping to solo seventh with a 1-4 record.

Raquim Aceron led the Red Warriors with eight points and 24 excellent receptions, while Nabora posted an all-around performance with eight points, nine excellent digs, and nine excellent receptions. Xjhann Camaymayan also contributed eight points on six attacks and two blocks.

UE aims to bounce back when it faces winless De La Salle University this Saturday, again at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Cantada impresses in collegiate debut, leads NU to kick off title defense

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Standings
ADU 1-0
DLSU 1-0
UP 1-0
NU 1-0
UST 0-1
UE 0-1
FEU 0-1
Ateneo 0-1

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)

Sam Cantada lived up to the hype as National University opened its 'three-peat' bid with a thrilling 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24 victory over University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Tournament.

The Lady Bulldogs and the Golden Tigresses delivered a gripping showdown in front of 15,215 fans at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.

Cantada, the Season 87 High School Girls’ Volleyball MVP, spearheaded NU’s comeback from a 16-20 deficit in the fourth set, scoring seven of the team’s final 10 points — including three aces — to seal the win in two hours and 15 minutes.

“Sa totoo lang, I know a lot of people na chamba ‘yung kay Sam but I’ve seen it so many times already so it’s her. It’s her character, she’s a really good fighter lalo sa crucial games so I didn’t doubt her and I was so sure that she’s going to make it hanggang sa dulo,” said head coach Regine Diego, who secured a victory in her coaching debut for NU.

The Golden Tigresses were still in control at 23-19 before Cantada ignited NU’s decisive run. She began with a sharp crosscourt kill, then fired back-to-back aces to pull the Lady Bulldogs within one, 22-23.

Vange Alinsug tied the match at 23-all with an off-the-block hit, before Cantada unleashed another ace to hand NU the match point, 24-23.

Although Angge Poyos kept UST alive with a point to extend the set, Alinsug responded with a hit that grazed the blockers’ fingers. Poyos’ ensuing attack sailed out, sealing the victory for the Lady Bulldogs.

“Nasa utak ko lang po tinitesting ako sa training ang pangit po ng mga serve ko, inconsistent ako. Tumatak lang sa isip ko na kailangan kong i-overcome yun, kailangan kong ilaban ito kasi nakikita ko po sa teammates ko na nilalaban po nila,” said Cantada, who finished with a game-high 21 points built on 17 attacks, three aces, and a block, along with 14 excellent receptions.

Alinsug added 18 points, while Arah Panique chipped in 15 markers despite not seeing action in the fourth set.

Shaira Jardio also stood out defensively with 20 excellent receptions and 14 excellent digs.

Up next for NU is Adamson University on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Poyos led the Golden Tigresses with 18 points on 15 attacks and three blocks, while Xyza Gula contributed 10 points and five digs.

Rookies Julia Balingit and Avril Bron also scored 10 points apiece in the loss.

UST will have a week to regroup before facing De La Salle University next Sunday at the same Pasay venue.

NU earns twice-to-beat incentive with come-from-behind triumph over UE

c/o UAAP

National University turned to a strong second half to frustrate University of the East, 83-74, and clinch the first twice-to-beat incentive for the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Final Four on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Riding their fifth straight win, the Bulldogs improved to 11-2 and secured a semifinals twice-to-beat edge for the first time since Season 76 (2013), a remarkable turnaround after a disappointing 5-9 finish last year.

Head coach Jeff Napa lamented NU’s slow start, as his team trailed by as much as 18 points before flipping the switch late in the third quarter.

The Red Warriors led 53-35 but could not sustain the advantage and absorbed another defeat.

“Nung first half, unusual eh. Akala siguro ng mga players namin na hindi na maglalaro ‘yung UE. Kami, masyadong relaxed so pagpasok namin sa dugout, simple lang ang sinabi ko, ‘Yun ba ang level na gusto niyong i-perform eh papasok na tayo ng Final Four?' If you want to succeed sa next level, kailangan ipakita nila ‘yung best nila,” said Napa.

("The first half was unusual. I think our players assumed UE wasn’t going to play seriously. We were too relaxed, so when we went back to the back, I said, 'Is this the level you want to play at when we’re about to enter the Final Four? If you want to succeed at the next level, you have to give your best.'”)

UE, now winless through 13 games, had raced to a 42-31 halftime lead thanks to the efforts of Tope Lagat, Precios Momowei, Wello Lingolingo, and Jhon Jimenez.

But NU made a halftime adjustment that allowed them to claw back and eventually dominate.

With UE ahead 53-35 early in the third, Jolo Manansala, Omar John, and Mark Parks orchestrated a 20-4 run to bring NU within two, 55-57, with 1:50 remaining in the period.

Although the Red Warriors still led 61-56 entering the fourth, the Bulldogs struck with a decisive 19-2 rally, powered by PJ Palacielo, Jake Figueroa, John, and Manansala, giving them a 75-63 cushion with 2:57 left.

During that fourth-quarter drought, UE failed to make a field goal until Lagat’s floater at the 1:16 mark.

“Siguro kahit papaano nagpi-peak naman na ako kasi thankful ako sa teammates and coaches ko kasi nandoon pa rin ‘yung tiwala, hindi ko naman magagawa ‘yung ganiyang stats kundi dahil sa kanila,” said Manansala, who scored 17 of his 21 points in the second half.

("I guess I’m starting to peak a bit, and I’m really thankful to my teammates and coaches because they still trust me. I wouldn’t be able to put up these kinds of stats without them.")

John contributed 14 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks, while Figueroa added 14 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

Francisco chipped in 12 points, and Palacielo finished with 11 in the come-from-behind win.

NU will look to close the elimination round on a six-game winning streak when it faces University of Santo Tomas on Nov. 23 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

For UE, rookie Tope Lagat led his team with 17 points, including 11 in the first half, while Precious Momowei added 14 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists. Dylan Despi contributed 11 points, seven assists, and five steals, and Jhon Jimenez tallied 10 points.

The Red Warriors, mired in a 19-game losing streak dating back to last year, will aim to end it in their final game of the season next Saturday against Far Eastern University at the same venue.

The Scores:

NU (83) - Manansala 21, Figueroa 14, John 14, Francisco 12, Palacielo 11, Enriquez 5, Parks 4. Tulabut 2, Garcia 0, Jumamoy 0, Dela Cruz 0, Reyes 0, Navarro 0, Solomon 0, Padrones 0.

UE (74) - Lagat 17, Momowei 14, Despi 11, Jimenez 10, Lingolingo 9, Datumalim 5, Cruz-Dumont 3, Tañedo 3, Robles 2, Malaga 0, Distrito 0.

Quarterscores: 17-21, 31-42, 56-61, 83-74.

NU dismantles La Salle in UAAP Women's Basketball

c/o UAAP

Games on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
8 a.m. – DLSZ vs UE (16U)
10 a.m. – UST vs FEU-D (16U)
1 p.m. – DLSU vs UE (Women)
3 p.m. – DLSU vs UE (Men)
5 p.m. – UST vs FEU (Men)
7 p.m. – UST vs FEU (Women)

National University got off to another slow start but pulled away in the second quarter to keep De La Salle University winless, 86-68, securing its third straight victory in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

After trailing by as many as seven points in the opening period, the Lady Bulldogs shook off their sluggish start, relying on Tin Cayabyab, Ann Pingol, Angel Surada, and Marga Villanueva to combine for 24 points in the second quarter.

Meanwhile, they held the Lady Archers to just eight points on a dismal 3-of-13 shooting clip.

That second-quarter surge proved decisive, as NU maintained control for the rest of the game, cruising to its third consecutive win and forging a two-way tie for second place with Ateneo de Manila University, both holding identical 4-1 records.

“We responded well during the second quarter. Medyo nakabawi kami doon sa medyo flat na start namin for two games now na we’re starting out slow. Pero, buti naman sa second quarter, nakapag-adjust agad kami,” NU head coach DA Olan said.

In the third frame, the Lady Archers stayed within striking distance, trailing by just 10 points at 44-34.

However, the Lady Bulldogs went on a commanding 22-6 run—highlighted by four consecutive inside baskets from Villanueva, Angela Garcia, Surada, and Cayabyab—to build a 26-point lead, 66-40, that proved insurmountable.

Any hopes of a late La Salle comeback were dashed as a four-point spurt from Surada, followed by back-to-back layups from Cayabyab, extended NU’s wire-to-wire triumph to an 80-55 cushion with less than six minutes left in the fourth period.

Cayabyab finished with 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting, along with seven rebounds and one steal, while Villanueva added 15 points, four rebounds, and four steals.

Surada posted a double-double with 14 points on 6-of-10 shooting, 10 rebounds, and two assists, earning a game-high plus-26 rating.

Aloha Betanio contributed eight points, six rebounds, five assists, and two steals.

Rookie center Samantha Medina added eight points and two blocks, while Marylene Solis and Dindy Medina chipped in six points each.

The Lady Bulldogs will look to extend their three-game streak against the Ateneo Blue Eagles this Saturday, October 18, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Meanwhile, La Salle’s losing streak stretched to six games, continuing from back-to-back defeats to close Season 87 last year.

Paula Anastacio flirted with a double-double, finishing with 14 points and eight rebounds, along with three steals, while Kyla Go added 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Eli Delos Reyes contributed 10 points and two steals, and Tricia Mendoza had eight points, eight rebounds, and one block.

The Lady Archers will aim to rediscover their winning ways against fellow winless University of the East this Wednesday, October 15, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

The Scores:

NU (86) – Cayabyab 18, Villanueva 15, Surada 14, Betanio 8, S. Medina 8, Solis 6, D. Medina 6, Pingol 5, Pring 2, Alterado 2, Garcia 2, Canindo 0, Ico 0.

DLSU (68) – Anastacio 14, Go 12, Delos Reyes 10, Mendoza 8, Lubrico 5, Villarin 5, Camba 4, Sunga 4, A. Dizon 2, Dela Paz 2, S. Dizon 2, Araza 0, Villapando 0, Catalan 0.

Quarterscores: 20-21, 44-29, 66-46, 86-68

NU steals solo second on fourth quarter comeback against Adamson

c/o UAAP

National University mounted a furious rally from 11 points down in the last five minutes to stun Adamson University, 56-54, in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Jake Figueroa delivered the go-ahead and-one layup with 52.5 seconds left, muscling past Manu Anabo on a post move to put NU ahead, 55-54.

Adamson had several chances to reclaim the lead, but AJ Fransman’s layup went long, and Cedrick Manzano’s tip-in attempt also missed.

The Bulldogs failed to convert on the next possession, but the Falcons likewise squandered their opportunities as Matty Erolon botched a layup and Fransman, after grabbing the offensive rebound, turned the ball over—sealing the gritty win for NU.

The victory marked a strong bounce back for the Bulldogs, who were coming off a stinging loss to University of the Philippines, where they surrendered a 22-2 fourth-quarter run. This time, NU flipped the script, outscoring Adamson, 15-2, in the last 5:33.

“Credit sa mga players. Grabe ‘yung depensa namin kahit hindi kami makahulog eh, grabe ‘yung field goal shooting namin. Players na ang nagpanalo nito, hindi na ako yan. It’s all their heart, it’s all their effort,” said NU head coach Jeff Napa.

(“Credit goes to the players. Our defense was incredible, even if we couldn’t make our shots—our field goal shooting was really bad. But the players were the ones who won this game, not me. It was all their heart, all their effort.")

The Soaring Falcons looked in control after OJ Ojarikre’s putback off his own miss gave them a 52-41 lead with 5:33 remaining.

But NU responded with a blistering 11-0 run sparked by Jolo Manansala’s back-to-back baskets, with Gelo Santiago also contributing before Figueroa tied it at 52-all with a layup off a steal at the 2:26 mark.

Manzano briefly restored Adamson’s edge with a pick-and-roll finish, but Figueroa came through once more to complete NU’s comeback.

The Bulldogs improved to 4-1, taking solo second place behind unbeaten Ateneo de Manila University.

“Kasi galing kami sa talo, gusto namin ipakita na kaya namin mag-bounce back. Luckily, nakakaconvert kami kapag crucial moments,” said Figueroa, who finished with 17 points, three assists, three steals, two rebounds, and two blocks.

(“Coming from a loss, we wanted to show that we can bounce back. Luckily, we were able to convert in crucial moments.")

Manansala and Santiago chipped in nine points apiece for NU, which looks to build on the momentum when it faces De La Salle University on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Manzano led Adamson with 16 points and four rebounds, while rookie Earl Medina impressed with nine points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting from beyond the arc.

Mathew Montebon struggled with just eight points on 2-of-10 shooting, while Ojarikre tallied eight points and 11 rebounds.

The Falcons, now at 1-4, will try to snap their three-game losing skid on Saturday when they battle winless University of the East at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.

The Scores:

NU 56 – Figueroa 17, Manansala 9, Santiago 9, Enriquez 6, Parks 5, Palacielo 2, John 2, Francisco 2, Dela Cruz 2, Garcia 2, Jumamoy 0, Padrones 0, Reyes 0.

AdU 54 – Manzano 16, Medina 9, Montebon 8, Ojarikre 8, Erolon 4, Fransman 4, Perez 3, Anabo 2, Jaymalin 0, C. Ronzone 0, A. Ronzone 0, Tumaneng 0, Cañete 0, Barcelona 0, Torres 0.

Quarterscores: 16-20, 28-24, 38-45, 56-54.

Cayabyab anchors NU demolition of UP

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament Standings
UST 3 0
Ateneo 2 0
NU 2 1
UP 2 1
FEU 1 1
AdU 0 2
DLSU 0 2
UE 0 3

Games Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
8 a.m. – Ateneo vs DLSZ (16U)
10 a.m. – FEU-D vs AdU (16U)
12 noon – FEU vs AdU (Women)
2 p.m. – FEU vs AdU (Men)
5 p.m. – Ateneo vs DLSU (Men)
7 p.m. – Ateneo vs DLSU (Women)

Tin Cayabyab dropped 26 points as National University powered past the previously unbeaten University of the Philippines, 95-58, in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament, Saturday evening at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Eager to atone for a 62-76 defeat to archrival UST Growling Tigresses last Wednesday, the Lady Bulldogs leaned on Cayabyab, Karl Ann Pingol, and Marga Villanueva to build a dominant 27-point second-quarter surge, outscoring UP 38-11—a deficit the Fighting Maroons never recovered from.

With their collective effort, NU climbed into a tie for third place with UP, as both teams now hold identical 2-1 records after the Lady Bulldogs handed the Fighting Maroons their first defeat of the season.

“May part na mabigat yung talo na ‘yon para sa amin bilang defending champions, pero yung mindset namin sa NU basketball is mag-move forward kami palagi kahit ano ‘man yung maging resulta kaya naka-bounce back kami,” said Cayabayab, the Gilas Women 3x3 member who finished with 26 points on 10-of-18 shooting, five steals, three rebounds, two assists, and one block.

UP attempted to mount a rally late in the second quarter, with Louna Ozar, Camille Nolasco, and Shane Cunanan knocking down key shots to trim the deficit to 52-34 by halftime.

However, NU’s early dominance proved decisive, as Cayabyab spearheaded the Lady Bulldogs’ third-quarter surge, scoring 19 points while holding UP to just five. Entering the final period, NU held a commanding 71-39 lead.

The Lady Bulldogs controlled every facet of the game, limiting UP to just 27.7 percent from the field (18-of-65), forcing 22 turnovers, and recording 16 steals.

“Kami naman, we take it one game at a time. We prepare every game kahit sino kalaban namin, we prepare hard. Ito naman, coming off a loss, we made sure na lahat ng pagkukulang namin from the last game on that loss ay ma-address namin,” NU head coach DA Olan said.

Pingol finished with 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting, adding 10 rebounds and three assists, while Villanueva contributed 11 points on 3-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, with six rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

Marylene Solis added 10 points, three rebounds, three steals, and two assists, while Angel Surada posted nine points, eight rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block.

NU looks to continue its winning ways against Adamson University on Wednesday, October 8, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

Meanwhile, UP, which opened the season with back-to-back wins over Adamson and University of the East, was handed a wake-up call and now aims to regroup against Ateneo on the same date and venue.

Marielle Vingno led the Fighting Maroons with 13 points, two rebounds, and two assists, while Cunanan narrowly missed a double-double with 10 points and eight rebounds, adding one assist.

Ozar was limited to nine points on 4-of-11 shooting with six turnovers, while Achrissa Maw and Shanna Tapawan chipped in eight points each in the losing effort.

The Scores:

NU (95) - Cayabyab 26, Pingol 14, Villanueva 11, Solis 10, Surada 9, Betanio 5, Canindo 5, Garcia 4, Alterado 4, D. Medina 3, Pring 2, S. Medina 2, Ico 0.

UP (58) - Vingno 13, Cunanan 10, Ozar 9, Maw 8, Tapawan 8, Nolasco 4, Barba 3, Solitario 2, Mejasco 1, Santos 0, Pascua 0, Mendoza 0, Castro 0, Evangelista 0, Catequista 0.

Quarterscores: 28-10, 52-34, 71-39, 95-58.

NU slays UST in batlle of unbeaten squads

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Standings
NU 3-0
Ateneo 3-0
UST 2-1
DLSU 2-1
AdU 1-2
UP 1-2
FEU 0-3
UE 0-3

Games on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion
7:30 a.m. – UE vs UST (16U)
9:30 a.m. – UPIS vs NUNS (16U)
11:30 a.m.  – UE vs UST (Women)
1:30 p.m. – UE vs UST (Men)
4:30 p.m. – UP vs NU (Men)
7 p.m. – UP vs NU (Women)

National University effectively stopped Collins Akowe to outlast University of Santo Tomas in its home floor, the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, 76-69, and stay spotless in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament, Wednesday.

The Bulldogs, well-aware of the former NU Nazareth School foreign student-athlete play, limited Akowe to just a season-low five points on 1-of-7 shooting from the field and eight rebounds.

Prior to this, Akowe averaged 24.5 points and 18.0 rebounds in the Growling Tigers’ 2-0 start with big wins against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and the De La Salle University Green Archers - the last two seasons’ finalists.

“The players really worked hard talaga na makuha ito… Happy for our guys na talagang they followed the game plan. They are disciplined to do it, the effort is there yun naman ang laging sinasabi ko sa kanila,” said NU head coach Jeff Napa as they are now leveled with idle Ateneo de Manila University at 3-0 atop the standings.

(“The players really worked hard to get this… I’m happy for our guys because they really followed the game plan. They are disciplined enough to do it, the effort is there—that’s what I always tell them.")

Jake Figueroa, meanwhile, made the shots that counted the most for the Bulldogs to tilt the game to their side.

With UST up by a point, Gelo Santiago came through with a layup before Figueroa made it a three-point lead for NU with a step-back jumper, 70-67 with 1:52 left.

Nic Cabañero retaliated for the Growling Tigers to inch within a point, 69-70, but Figueroa seized the moment again with a booming three-pointer with 38.2 seconds remaining that served as the dagger that came after a UST turnover.

The Growling Tigers could not execute on the other end that spelled doom in the end.

“Tinake advantage ko lang ‘yung binigay na responsibilidad ni coach na ‘yun nga, kumbaga kailangan kong akuin so ayun kahit papaano pumapasok naman,” said Figueroa, who had 22 points, including nine in the fourth period, while also grabbing nine rebounds.

(“I just took advantage of the responsibility that coach gave me—basically, it was something I had to own—so I did my part and it worked out somehow.")

Gambian center Omar John also outplayed Akowe for NU, registering 10 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks, three assists, and two steals

On the other hand, UST’s dream start came to an end, dropping to 2-1, tied with La Salle at third.

Cabañero paced the Growling Tigers with 19 points on an 8-of-19 clip from the field while Amiel Acido erupted for a career-high 18 points in the defeat.

Mark Llemit also contributed 12 points, five rebounds, two steals, and a block while Forthsky Padrigao got 10 points and six assists.

Both teams will be back on Saturday with NU clashing with UP at 4:30 p.m. while UST aims to bounce back at 1:30 p.m. against winless University of the East, still at the QPav.

The Scores:

NU (76) – Figueroa 22, John 10, Palacielo 10, Garcia 9, Enriquez 7, Francisco 5, Santiago 4, Parks 3, Manansala 2, Jumamoy 2, Dela Cruz 2, Padrones 0, Solomon 0, Tulabut 0, Navarro 0.
       
UST (69) – Cabañero 19, Acido 18, Llemit 12, Padrigao 10, Akowe 5, Buenaflor 3, Crisostomo 2, Estacio 0, Danting 0, Paranada 0, Laure 0, Calum 0.
     
Quarterscores: 18-22, 40-43, 58-61, 76-69.

DA Olan secures first win as head coach for NU women's basketball

c/o UAAP

 

NEW head coach, same dominant National University in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament.

The Lady Bulldogs launched their title defense in convincing fashion with DA Olan at the helm, dismantling the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 89-64, on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Olan, a long-time NU deputy, was elevated to head coach after three-year chief tactician Aris Dimaunahan resigned last August.

“For sure, ‘yung first game jitters meron din ako as first time coach pero ‘yun nga happy with this win, still big room for improvement for us. I know we can still do better than this,” said Olan, who has been part of the Lady Bulldogs program in various capacities for 12 years.

Despite losing Camille Clarin to graduation, NU showed no signs of slowing down, exploding for seven three-pointers to grab a commanding 36-19 lead after the opening quarter.

Tin Cayabyab and Marga Villanueva sparked the onslaught with three treys apiece, while Angel Surada added one to set the tone early.

“First game namin syempre inaalay namin ito kay coach DA bilang first time na head coach namin. Sobrang laking tiwala namin sa kanya kasi naging specific siya sa play namin ngayon, mas naging detailed siya sa mga position and play na kailangan namin gawin,” said Cayabyab, who starred with 24 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

Villanueva chipped in 13 points, while Ann Pingol turned in an all-around performance of 12 points, nine rebounds, six steals, four assists, and a block.

Surada, in her final year with NU, added 11 points and five rebounds, while Aloha Betanio contributed eight points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and three steals.

Last season’s Rookie of the Year and Finals MVP Cielo Pagdulagan sat out due to illness.

On the other side, Amyah Espanol led FEU with 15 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks, while Shemaiah Abatayo also had 15 points but struggled from the field, shooting just 2-of-10 and earning nine of her points from the free-throw line.

Both squads return to action on Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. NU will battle rival University of Santo Tomas in a Finals rematch at 7 p.m., while FEU faces De La Salle University at 12 p.m.

The Scores:

NU (89) – Cayabyab 24, Villanueva 13, Pingol 12, Surada 11, Solis 9, Betanio 8, Pring 6, D. Medina 3, Garcia 2, Canindo 1, Alterado 0, Ico 0, S. Medina 0.

FEU (64) – Abatayo 15, Villanueva 15, Espanol 12, Salvani 7, Dela Torre 5, Lopez 3, Manguiat 3, Pasilang 2, Nagma 2, Patio 0.

Quarterscores: 36-19, 49-28, 67-42, 89-64.

NU spoils Chris Gavina's UAAP coaching debut

c/o UAAP

Games Wednesday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena
7:30 a.m. - Ateneo vs UE (16U)
9:30 a.m. - UP vs AdU (16U)
12 p.m. - Ateneo vs UE (Women)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs UE (Men)
4 p.m. - UP vs AdU (Men)
7 p.m. - UP vs AdU (Women)

National University turned up the heat in the second half to overwhelm the University of the East, 72-57, spoiling Chris Gavina’s coaching debut in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena in Manila.

The Bulldogs rode the continued rise of Paul Francisco and Kenshin Padrones, along with the return of Gambian foreign student-athlete Omar John, to fuel a strong start to the farewell tour of seniors Jake Figueroa, Steve Nash Enriquez, and Jolo Manansala.

After a disappointing 2-6 first round in Season 87 that kept them out of Final Four contention for the first time since Season 84, NU’s opening day victory provides a much-needed boost for the Bulldogs.

“Thankful ako kasi sa first game namin, nakuha namin ito. Nagkaroon kami ng confidence sa mga paparating na games pa namin. Yung gusto lang ni coach Jeff sa amin na nandoon lang yung effort and aggressiveness namin kada game, kailangan every game ready kami,” shared Francisco, who finished with 16 points, six rebounds, five steals, three assists, and two blocks.

The Bulldogs pulled away early in the second half with a 14-1 run, sparked by back-to-back thunderous dunks from John and Figueroa, an inside basket by John, and a Figueroa triple, stretching their lead to 53-35.

The Red Warriors’ hopes of a comeback quickly faded as Tebol Garcia hit a mid-range jumper, Figueroa added two free throws, Palacielo converted a layup, and Gelo Santiago drained a three-pointer, giving NU a commanding 68-45 lead with 8:12 remaining and sealing their first opening day triumph since Season 86.

“Mahaba pa yung season. Very important for us is to become healthy muna. ‘Yon muna iniisip namin ngayon is maging healthy kami kasi mahaba yung season. At least masaya kami na nalagpasan namin yung first game na walang nangyari sa players,” Bulldogs head coach Jeff Napa said.

Francisco contributed 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting with four rebounds, one assist, and one steal, while Padrones added a near double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds, along with one steal and one block.

In his first UAAP action since Season 86, John finished with eight points, two rebounds, and one block, while Santiago also scored eight points with one rebound.

NU will next face Far Eastern University, which dropped its opener to Ateneo de Manila University, on Saturday, September 27, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

For UE, Gavina’s first outing ended in defeat as the Red Warriors continued their rebuilding process following a fifth-place finish in Season 87 and the departures of Rain Maga, Jack Cruz-Dumont, and Ethan Galang.

Nigerian foreign student-athlete Precious Momowei led UE with a double-double of 12 points and 16 rebounds, alongside three assists, two steals, and one block, while team captain John Abate registered 10 points on 4-of-7 shooting with two rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block.

Rookie Mo Tanedo, a product of West Nottingham University in the United States, showed promise with eight points, two rebounds, and two assists.

The Red Warriors aim to bounce back against Kymani Ladi and the Blue Eagles this Wednesday, September 24, still at the QPAV Arena.

The Scores:

NU (72) – Figueroa 16, Francisco 12, Padrones 10, John 8, Santiago 8, Palacielo 6, Jumamoy 4, Manansala 3, Enriquez 3, Garcia 2, Dela Cruz 0, Parks 0, Solomon 0, Tulabut 0, Reyes 0.

UE (57) – Momowei 12, Abate 10, Tañedo 8, Dumont 5, Datumalim 5, Caoile 4, Lagat 4, Lingolingo 4, Jimenez 4, Rosete 1, Robles 0, Mulingtapang 0, Cabero 0, Malaga 0, Despi 0.

Quarterscores: 24-20, 39-34, 59-45, 72-57

UP, NU battle for Filoil preseason crown

Gerry Abadiano

AFTER two long weeks, it all boils down to this one final game.

University of the Philippines and National University dispute the coveted crown in the PlayTime Cares Filoil EcoOil 18th Preseason Cup presented by ABC Tile Adhesive on Sunday.

There’s no love lost between the two sides and that would certainly be the case in this one-game championship duel set at 5:30 p.m. at PlayTime Filoil Centre in San Juan.

For the Fighting Maroons, a crack at history beckons as they gun for an unprecedented third straight title in the premier preseason league which would enable them to capture the ECJ Perpetual Trophy.

But coach Goldwin Monteverde knows that winning it all won’t be easy.

“We know NU is a tough team and it’s going to be a big challenge for us when we face them,” he said.

It’s much of the same case for the Bulldogs, with coach Jeff Napa fully aware of the prowess that the opposition possesses while determined to recapture the trophy they last won back in 2022.

“Hindi magiging madali. Alam naming na underdogs kami sa laban na ito pero ang mahalaga sa amin is we just play our game,” the mentor said.

Gerry Abadiano, Harold Alarcon, and Terrence Fortea will lead the charge for UP while NU will depend on the trio of Jake Figueroa, Jolo Manansala, and Steve Nash Enriquez in the finale of this tilt which has PlayTime Cares, Filoil, EcoOil, Hanes, Bostik El Heneral, Jiang Nan Hotpot, Lamtex Pipes, Smart, and Puso Pilipinas as major sponsors, Spalding as official game ball, and Harbor Star, Wallem, Akari, BDO, Tela.com Athletics, Nature’s Spring, Reyes Barbecue, and Brothers Burger as minor sponsors.

The top gunslingers in the amateur ranks will first take the court in the last gameday of the preseason as the Hanes 3-Point Shootout serve as the appetizer at 4:30 p.m.

Fortea and NU’s Reinhard Jumamoy banner the eight-man field which also includes Adamson’s Matty Erolon, University of Santo Tomas’ Kyle Paranada, La Salle’s Mason Amos, University of the East’s John Abate, Benilde’s Ernest Daja, and Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Nico Quinal.

The winner of the competition will bag the P10,000 cash prize and a gift pack from Hanes.

NU at cusp of successful UAAP baseball repeat

c/o UAAP Media Team

Game on Tuesday at the(Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

8 a.m. - DLSU vs NU (Finals Game 2)
NU leads series 1-0

KEVIN Maulit played the hero once again as National University erupted with a five-run rally in the fifth inning to secure a dominant 16-7 victory over De La Salle University to move on the cusp of back-to-back UAAP baseball titles, Friday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Fresh off a stellar offensive outing in the Final Four against Adamson University, the 24-year-old product of NU Nazareth School delivered the game’s most pivotal hit. His clutch three-RBI play in the fifth inning widened the Bulldogs’ lead to 10-5—an advantage they would never surrender.

Facing rookie pitcher Yuan Sumague of Tanauan, Batangas, Maulit launched a hit deep to right field, far out of Barry Oñas' reach. The blast brought home Kent Altarejos, his brother Kenneth Maulit, and Herald Tenorio, igniting the Bulldogs’ biggest scoring surge of the game.

With the victory, NU moved one step closer to a rare back-to-back title, needing just one more win to clinch the crown. Game 2 is set for Tuesday, May 6 at 8 a.m., still at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

"Alam naman naming na may possibility na bumalik 'yung La Salle. So, pinaalala ko lang na 'yung score, hindi importante; kailangan nating mag-reset. Kailangan pa rin naming mag-focus sa hitting kasi hindi pa tapos ang laro. So, 'yun naman ang ginawa, nag-respond naman 'yung mga players kaya nakuha naming 'tong game," said NU head coach Romar Landicho, now in his second year at the helm.

(“We knew there was a possibility that La Salle could come back. So I just reminded the team that the score doesn’t matter—we needed to reset. We still had to focus on our hitting because the game wasn’t over yet. That’s exactly what we did, and the players responded, which is why we were able to win this game.")

NU initially trailed by a run going into the third inning but finally broke through La Salle’s defenses behind pitcher Peter Nonaillada.

Kent Altarejos advanced to second base after a throwing error by La Salle shortstop Agorn De Vera. Moments later, Herald Tenorio brought his catcher Altarejos home with a hit up the middle, tying the game at 1-all.

Then came the fireworks. Nigel Paule, who nearly homered in their semifinals win over Adamson, connected this time with a thunderous grand slam, sending the ball off the left-field wall with Tenorio, Maulit, and Gio Gorpido on base. The four-run bomb gave NU a commanding 5-1 lead.

"I've always believed in Nigel; hindi nawala 'yung tiwala ko sa kanya. Actually, kinausap ko siya nung isang araw, sabi ko sa kanya na ikaw mag-MVP sa Finals, and so far so good, kasi naka-hit siya ng grand slam," said Landicho of Paule’s breakout performance.

(“I've always believed in Nigel; I never lost trust in him. In fact, I talked to him the other day and told him, ‘You’re going to be the MVP of the Finals,’ and so far, so good—he hit a grand slam.")

La Salle, however, was not ready to roll over. The Green Batters responded in the top of the fourth inning, leveling the game at 5-all. Ezy Bautista’s RBI single brought Marco Flores home, before an error on Paule’s failed fielding attempt allowed two more runs. JR Alcontin then capped the comeback by driving in Bautista.

But that proved to be La Salle's last stand.

In the bottom of the fifth, Maulit’s clutch hit sealed the momentum shift, as the Bulldogs piled on five more runs and never looked back.

Paule finished the game with a grand slam and four RBIs, while Maulit continued his hitting masterclass, recording three hits in six at-bats and driving in three runs.

On the mound, reigning Best Pitcher Amiel De Guzman anchored NU’s defense, limiting La Salle to just 11 hits and two earned runs over eight innings. Jherick Timban closed out the game in the ninth, not allowing a single baserunner.

Team captain Agorn De Vera paced the Green Batters with a 3-of-5 hitting clip, but his three errors proved costly. Alcontin added a hit and three RBIs for La Salle, which will now attempt to force a deciding Game 3 on Friday, May 9.

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 -- R H E
DLSU 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 0 0 7 11 3
NU 0 0 5 0 5 0 2 4 x 16 21 3

NU remains on top heading into baseball elims finale

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on April 23 at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

Ateneo vs AdU
UST vs UP*
NU vs DLSU*
* - Law of immediate succession

NATIONAL University continued its march toward the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Final Four with a 7-2 win over also-ran Ateneo de Manila University, Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Now holding an 8-1 win-loss record, the defending champions aim to lock in the No. 1 seed when they face De La Salle University (6-2) on April 23. That matchup will come after the Holy Week break, marking the end of the elimination round.

The Bulldogs leaned on a strong four-run finish and a composed complete-game performance from pitcher Jherick Timban to notch their second straight win in the second round. But it was the dependable showing from their second-stringers that made the difference in keeping Ateneo at bay.

The turning point came in the fifth inning, with the game tied at two. Kent Altarejos sparked the go-ahead rally with a single to deep left field in the direction of Rico Samson, then stole second to get into scoring position. Kevin Maulit followed with a shot to the same area, bringing Altarejos home to break the deadlock.

“Binigyan namin ng chances 'yung mga second stringers namin, baka sakaling kailanganin namin sila sa mga susunod naming laro. We make it a point, kaming mga coaches, na maging fair sa kanila at para mabigyan naman sila ng playing time. This is the only way para magka-experience sila sa laro, so nasa kanila kung paano nila ite-take 'yung game,” said NU second-year head coach Romar Landicho.

("We gave our second stringers a chance, just in case we need them in our upcoming games. As coaches, we make it a point to be fair to them and to give them playing time. This is the only way they can gain experience in actual games, so it's up to them how they take that opportunity.")

Those second-stringers helped NU establish an early 2-0 lead by the third inning while also holding Ateneo scoreless through the first two frames. Kiel Olazo led the charge with one run apiece in the first and third innings, while Herald Tenorio delivered two hits in the same frames. Altarejos and Maulit also chipped in one hit each.

On the mound, Timban was rock-solid, throwing a complete game without relief. He held Ateneo to just five hits and two earned runs—both coming in the third inning—and struck out 10 batters.

Maulit led the Bulldogs offensively with two hits in four at-bats and two RBIs. Altarejos went 3-of-4 at the plate with one RBI, while Tenorio added a 3-of-5 performance with one RBI as well.

Ateneo, now at 1-8 after dropping its sixth straight game, managed its only offense in the third inning. Matthew San Juan and Alejandro Mendoza each delivered a double and one RBI to bring home Luis Mendoza and San Juan.

But that was all the Blue Eagles could muster, as they were held scoreless and limited to just two hits the rest of the way. Enzo Montemayor accounted for one of those late-game hits, his second coming in the final inning.

Lucas Atentido took his second consecutive loss on the mound after giving up 13 hits and all seven NU runs.

Team    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9     R H E
NU       1 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 2 -- 7 13 1
Ateneo 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 -- 2 5 4

NU reclaims men's tennis title

c/o UAAP Media Team

Tie on Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center

7 a.m.  – UST vs. NU (Women’s Finals Game 3)

National University returned to the summit of UAAP Men’s Tennis, ending a six-season title drought with a dominant 3-0 win over defending champion University of Santo Tomas in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 Finals, late Saturday evening at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

After a hard-fought 3-2 win in Game 1, the Bulldogs only needed two wins to clinch their sixth overall UAAP men’s tennis title—spoiling UST’s bid for a three-peat in the process.

This marks NU’s fourth championship this season, adding to their collection alongside Men’s Badminton, Women’s Taekwondo, and Women’s Beach Volleyball.

Facing a 1–5 deficit in the opening set, Aljon Talatayod delivered a gritty performance to come from behind and stun UST’s Sebastian Santos, 7(7)–6(3), 6–2, sealing the title for the Bulldogs in this tournament backed by Wilson Philippines.

“Ang hirap. Natutuwa ako kasi hindi namin ine-expect na ganun ‘yung magiging lineup nila. Iniba din nila, though ‘yung isang player na nawala for about I think two years siyang nawala,” said NU head coach Bobby Esquivel, referring to Talatayod.  “Nakiusap samin na kunin namin siya and even this year, nung first semester, nag-struggle siya sa pag-aral niya and even in the team hindi siya nakiki-practice… then after that he proved his worth naman. I did not expect na siya pa ‘yung mismong magsasara doon. So alam mo ‘yung kaparaanan ng Panginoon, hindi mo masabi.

(“It was tough. I’m really happy because we didn’t expect that would be their lineup. They made some changes, and one of their players had actually been gone for about two years. He personally asked us to take him in, and even this year, during the first semester, he struggled with his academics and even with the team—he wasn’t joining practices… but after that, he proved his worth. I didn’t expect that he would be the one to finish it for us. You really can’t predict the ways of the Lord.”)

“We’re so happy. We’re so blessed kasi from the Final Four, tapos natalo kami in the first game, then the next game, how are we going to recover? Parang ang hirap, and then sabi ko nga sa kanila kanina na ‘Imagine-in mo, naisip niyo ba na nandito tayo ngayon? We won the first match last Wednesday, and then today, what do you think?’

(“We’re so happy. We’re so blessed because coming from the Final Four, we lost the first game, and then the next game, the question was: how are we going to recover? It felt so difficult, and earlier I told them, ‘Just imagine—did you ever think we’d be here right now? We won the first match last Wednesday, and now today, what do you think?’”)

“I want them to believe in themselves. ‘Yun ‘yung pinaka-key namin and then of course ‘yung lagi naming sinasabi sa kanila na ‘pag tingin niyo na ginagawa niyo na ang lahat, nahihirapan kayo, that’s the time na dapat na mas mag-step up kayo, that’s the time na mas maging positive kayo and that’s the time na kailangan mas mag-pray kayo,” Esquivel added.

(“I just want them to believe in themselves. That’s our biggest key. And of course, what we always tell them is: when you feel like you’ve already given everything and things are still hard, that’s the time you have to step up even more, that’s the time you need to stay positive, and that’s the time you need to pray even harder.)

Season 87 Rookie of the Year and co-MVP Andrei Padao gave NU an early advantage, remaining undefeated in singles play after dispatching UST’s Christopher Sonsona, 6-3, 6-0, in the second singles match.

“Sobrang saya kasi syempre, isang taon po namin pinaghandaan ‘to… grabe kasi ‘yung pinagdaanan namin na trainings, ‘yung mga preseason [tournament] pa, kaya sobrang saya po talaga namin na parang nasuklian ‘yung hirap namin tapos ‘yung effort ng mga coaches namin nasuklian din namin sila. Sobrang saya ko kasi, syempre ngayon first year ko palang tapos considering sa course na kinuha ko, Accountancy, syempre mahirap talaga ‘yun… ito ‘yung pinaka-chance talaga na mag-excel talaga ako. Tapos ito lang ‘yung chance na bubuhos talaga ako,” said Padao, who was also named co-Finals MVP.

("I'm so happy because, of course, we prepared for this for a whole year… we went through intense training and even joined preseason tournaments, so we’re really overjoyed that all our hard work paid off—and we were also able to return the effort our coaches gave us. I’m extremely happy because this is only my first year, and considering the course I’m taking, Accountancy, which is really tough… this was my biggest opportunity to truly excel. And this was the one chance where I gave it everything I had.”)

“Syempre goal ko rin po na mag-Rookie of the Year, di ko naman in-expect na magiging MVP din po. ‘Di ko talaga in-expect na wala talaga akong talo ngayon.”

("Of course, my goal was to be Rookie of the Year, but I didn’t expect to be named MVP as well. I really didn’t expect that I’d go undefeated this season.”)

Team captain EJ Tugade, who also took home co-Finals MVP honors, delivered the first major blow to UST with a 6-4, 6-4 upset over co-MVP Nilo Ledama in the first singles match—handing Ledama his first loss of the season.

“First of all, napakasarap talaga sa feeling manalo nitong season na ‘to kasi matagal-tagal na naming inaasam-asam ‘to since Season 85. Sa ngayon, itong nakamit na namin, napakasarap talaga sa feeling. ‘Di ko rin akalain na makukuha namin ‘to ngayong araw. Akala namin, next day pa. But nagapang naman kanina at nakuha din namin ‘yung bawat panalo kanina and nagpapasalamat talaga kami sa nangyari ngayon,” said Tugade.

(“First of all, it feels incredibly good to win this season because we’ve been longing for this since Season 85. Now that we’ve finally achieved it, the feeling is just amazing. I didn’t expect that we would get it today—we actually thought it would take another day. But we really fought for it earlier, and we managed to secure every win, so we’re truly grateful for everything that happened today.”)

The Bulldogs now aim to complete a golden double as their women’s team battles UST in the deciding Game 3 of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Finals tomorrow, Sunday, at 7 a.m.

NU locks in postseason berth in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

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

NATIONAL University secured the second Final Four ticket in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament with a dominant 25-21, 25-17, 25-16 sweep of last-place University of the East on Wednesday morning at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

After cruising to their fourth consecutive win, the five-peat seeking Bulldogs improved to a 10-2 card to secure a return to the Final Four for the 10th consecutive season since Season 75.

The win also allowed NU to reaffirm its dominance over an also-ran UE squad, winning its 23rd straight game over the Red Warriors since a second round win in Season 73 last 2011.

“Thankful ako sa naging performance namin today. Nadominate namin yung laro at nadictate namin yung tempo. Naging factor talaga yung blockings namin today. We’ll continue lang yung ginagawa namin everyday heading into the Final Four,” Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.

“Sa nagiging resulta ng bawat game namin, nabubuhayan na ulit yung mindset ng mga player namin sa bawat laro. Hindi lang sa skills, kundi sa kundisyon ng bawat player ko na nakikita ko, nandoon na sa gusto namin,” he added.

In the third set, UE remained within striking distance at 13-10, but Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba uncorked a personal 3-0 run -- built on two consecutive blocks and a quick attack -- to give NU a comfortable 16-10 lead.

That proved to be all the cushion that the Bulldogs needed as two straight attacks by Leo Ordiales, an off-the-block hit from Jade Disquitado, a Shan Camaymayan attack error, and a quick attack from Mukaba to seal the 74-minute win.

Despite being marred by 11 errors in the first set, the Bulldogs found their footing in the second frame, turning a slim 12-11 lead to a 20-14 cushion to build a 2-0 set advantage.

Michaelo Buddin fueled NU’s triumph with 15 points on 13 attacks with seven excellent digs and nine excellent receptions, while Mukaba provided ample support with 14 points on a game-high seven blocks and seven attacks.

Ordiales added 12 points on 11 attacks, while team captain Leo Aringo tallied eight points on seven attacks with 17 excellent receptions and seven excellent digs.

Greg Ancheta orchestrated the Bulldogs’ offense with 23 excellent sets and one ace.

NU aims to secure a twice-to-beat incentive when it clashes against Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday, April 13, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, the drought continued for the Red Warriors as they stumbled to their 12th consecutive defeat in as many Season 87 matches. This loss also marked UE’s 18th straight loss dating back to its second round opener last season.

Isiah Roca and Raquim Aceron paced UE in the losing effort with 10 points each, while Axel Defeo chipped in five points.

Rookie hitter Roy Piojo was limited to two points on 2-of-19 attack efficiency in the loss.

The Red Warriors will next face the University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers on Saturday, April 12, at the same Cubao venue.

NU secure postseason playoff in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

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

National University made swift work of also-ran Adamson University, 25-17, 25-16, 25-15, to secure at least a playoff for a Final Four spot in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Bulldogs, four-time defending champions, raised their record to 9-2 with their third straight win, boosting their chances to reach the Final Four for a ninth straight season.

NU is two games above joint-third UST Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers at 7-4.

“Ito na siguro ‘yung hinihintay namin na sitwasyon na tumaas ‘yung percentage namin sa side-out kasi ‘yung pasa namin talagang nagiging problema namin mula simula, buti kanina gumanda ‘yung pasa namin kaya na-execute namin ‘yung gusto naming gawin sa loob ng court,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

("This is probably the situation we've been waiting for, where our side-out percentage improved because our passing has really been a problem from the start. Thankfully, our passing improved earlier, so we were able to execute what we wanted to do on the court.")

The Soaring Falcons were sticking with the Bulldogs midway through the third, 12-14, but Michaelo Buddin, Leo Aringo, Obed Mukaba, and Leo Ordiales pushed NU to the victory after one hour and 21 minutes with a decisive 11-3 finisher.

This victory by NU was a statement after needing to execute a reverse sweep in its first-round encounter against Adamson, 20-25, 17-25, 25-18, 25-19, 15-12.

The Bulldogs can clinch a spot in the semifinals with a win over the hapless UE Red Warriors on Wednesday, 9 a.m., at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Buddin led NU with 16 points on 15-of-24 spikes and an ace, while Aringo chipped in 12 points, 12 excellent receptions, and five digs.

Ordiales, who had regained the starting opposite position in lieu of Jade Disquitado, added 11 point,s while Mukaba had nine points on 5-of-6 spikes, two blocks, and two aces.

“Personally, I’m very happy because my performance before was not as good as I was expecting but now, with the help of the coaches I’m trying to improve so now I’m very happy for me and the team,” said the Congolese middle blocker, who was the 1st Best Middle Blocker of Season 85.

On the other hand, the eliminated Soaring Falcons dropped to 2-9 at seventh.

Adamson looks to escape out of its three-game slump on Saturday against the league-leading Far Eastern University at the Big Dome.

Off-the-bench Joel Menor paced the Soaring Falcons with seven points while Leo Coguimbal and Marc Paulino had six points each.

Jude Aguilar was held to another personal season-low of just three points after being limited to four points last game against University of Santo Tomas.