Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
University of the Philippines assured itself of at least a playoff for the last Final Four slot after downing University of Santo Tomas, 17-25, 25-21, 25-20, 25-20, in the UAAP Season 78 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.
With the win, the fourth-running Lady Maroons hiked their record to 8-6 and gained a half game lead over National University (7-6).
A Lady Bulldogs’ victory over De La Salle in their final game of the elimination round will force a playoff between them and the Lady Maroons with the winner earning the last semifinals seat.
Rookie Isa Molde was once again the heroine for UP as she finished with a game-high 23 points while Marian Buitre added 12.
UP captains Nicole Tiamzon and Kathy Bersola also finished with 10 points apiece.
EJ Laure led the also-ran Golden Tigresses (5-9) with 20 points while senior Mela Tunay added 12 and sophomore Cherry Rondina had 11.