NU’s Alyssa Solomon, right, smiles during a game against UST in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Displaying laser-sharp focus, Alyssa Solomon sustained her torrid play, leading National University past University of Santo Tomas for a first-round sweep in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament Sunday night.
Solomon stayed mentally keen, seemingly unbothered by her recent withdrawal from the 2025 Korean Volleyball Federation (KOVO) Asian Quota Draft, as she fired 24 points in the Lady Bulldogs’ 23-25, 25-17, 19-25, 25-18, 15-9 win before 12,790 fans at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“The win today wasn’t easy because I could see that UST really studied every move we made,” said Solomon in Filipino after dropping 21 kills and three blocks. “They gave their best, but we’re very happy because my teammates really put their hearts into the game.”
READ: UAAP: NU survives UST to sweep women’s volleyball first round
Alyssa Solomon and Bella Belen on their countless duels with UST. #UAAPSeason87 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/09X1ZZrndn
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) March 16, 2025
The Alas Pilipinas stalwart added that they couldn’t afford to have any let-ups against a formidable team like UST, which had won five in a row heading into the clash despite missing two key players in Jonna Perdido and Xyza Gula due to season-ending injuries.
“Since we’re already familiar with UST, we really need to avoid being complacent when they’re the opponents. Once you give them confidence, it will just keep going.”
As far as the Korean draft is concerned, Solomon politely declined to answer questions with regard to the matter. NU athletic director Otie Camangian and coach Sherwin Meneses also refused to comment, saying the school will release a statement soon.
READ: Alyssa Solomon withdraws from Korean V-League draft due to UAAP rule
Inquirer sources revealed that Solomon and NU were informed on Tuesday about the possible repercussions should the reigning Finals MVP pursue her plans to play in the Koream V-League due to a long-standing UAAP rule regarding amateurism and were given three days to respond.
The star opposite spiker still played on Wednesday, pouring in 22 points to send the Lady Bulldogs past the Adamson Lady Falcons, 25-21, 25-23, 25-18, at Mall of Asia Arena.
Solomon, the source said, decided to withdraw from KOVO and focus on the Lady Bulldogs’ title-retention campaign.
The Lady Bulldogs open their second-round campaign with another duel against the Tigresses on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.