UAAP: NU keeps Ateneo winless in women’s volleyball
NU Lady Bulldogs during a game against the Ateneo Blue Eagles in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — National University made quick work of Ateneo, 25-18, 25-18, 25-15 in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Vange Alinsug continued to lead the Lady Bulldogs with 18 points from 14 kills, three blocks, and an ace on top of seven excellent digs, while Arah Panique chipped in 10 points to lift their team to a 5-1 record for solo second place.
“For our team, the grit really shouldn’t disappear, especially since we’re in a rebuilding phase. But aside from that, I know my teammates and how much we all want to win, not just the championship, but from the very start because that’s where everything begins,” said Alinsug, who was last year’s co-Finals MVP with libero Shaira Jardio, in Filipino.
“So I think we just have to keep fighting and trusting ourselves, especially in every game.”
READ: UAAP: Sam Cantada says she’s fine after missing NU win
NU coach Regine Diego, Sam Cantada, Vange Alinsug, and Shaira Jardio after claiming their fifth win. #UAAPSeason88 @inquirersports pic.twitter.com/0YlKZCO0Ma
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) March 8, 2026
Sam Cantada, who missed their previous game against University of the East last Wednesday due to a shin injury, returned with six points, including the game-winning cross-court attack, despite seeing limited action.
Middle blockers Alexa Mata and Chams Maaya also stepped up with eight and seven points, respectively, while Celine Marsh started for NU for the second straight game and finished with six points. Jardio had 11 digs and five excellent receptions.
“We’re doing our best every day, and we’re happy because everybody can step up and play well whenever we need them. That also helps keep the pressure off each player, because everyone knows they can contribute,” said NU coach Regine Diego.
“We can’t focus too much on individual skills, we really have to work together as a team. No matter who’s on the court, the point is for all of us to play as one. I’m happy and lucky to have these girls with me because they’re very capable and supportive of each other, and hopefully we continue to improve every game.”
READ: UAAP: NU bounces back with sweep of UE in women’s volleyball
The Lady Bulldogs brace for a finals rematch against unbeaten La Salle, which won its first five games, on Sunday next week at Mall of Asia Arena.
Ateneo dropped to a 0-6 record, hoping to finally get a win on Saturday against fellow winless squad UE.
Ana Hermosura and Dona De Leon led the Blue Eagles with seven points each, while Zey Pacia and JLo Delos Santos added five apiece.
