Adamson University’s Shaina Nitura tries to score against Ateneo de Manila University’s Dona Mae De Leon in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals at the Mandaue Sports Complex on Sunday (Aug. 24, 2025). The Lady Falcons won, 25-15, 26-24, 25-14. (SSL photo)
Adamson University stamped its class in Cebu, sweeping Ateneo de Manila University, 25-15, 26-24, 25-14, to capture the Visayas leg crown of the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals on Sunday night at the Mandaue Sports Complex.
Alas Pilipinas standout Shaina Nitura once again proved unstoppable, firing 23 points built on 15 attacks, four blocks, and four aces to earn Best Player honors and cap the Lady Falcons’ unbeaten run—redemption after finishing as runners-up in 2023.
Adamson was firmly in control in the third set, leading 19-9, before Ateneo threatened to close the gap. But Nitura took matters into her own hands, sparking a 6-2 finishing kick to seal the sweep.
“I thank God for the performance of my players. We’re blessed to have three straight wins, and I’m very proud of their progress,” said Adamson head coach JP Yude, who also guided the Lady Falcons to the 2024 Shakey’s Girls Invitational Volleyball League title.
Meanwhile, University of San Carlos (USC) took silver after rallying past rival University of Southern Philippines Foundation, 22-25, 25-17, 25-23, 25-14. Ghanna Suan paced the Lady Warriors with 14 points, while Angel Galinato and Juliane Yu chipped in 11 and 10 markers, respectively.
“It was all about eagerness. In the first set, they were still adjusting, but by the second, their energy lifted,” said USC coach Grace Antigua, a former national team stalwart and multi-time SEA Games gold medalist.
Ateneo settled for bronze with a 1-2 record.
Action now shifts to the Luzon leg from August 29 to 31 in Batangas, featuring NCAA champion College of St. Benilde, Letran, Far Eastern University, and University of Batangas.