National University clinched its fourth Shakey’s Super League Unity Cup title after defeating University of Santo Tomas, 22-25, 25-22, 25-27, 25-23, 15-10, in Game 2 of the best-of-three finals at Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Saturday.
Rookie Sam Cantada and veteran Vange Alinsug led the Lady Bulldogs, dominating the fifth set to complete a back-to-back championship. Cantada tallied 24 points from 20 attacks, two aces, and two blocks; Alinsug added 19 points, and Kaye Bombita contributed 14.
Lams Lamina, tournament MVP and Best Setter, delivered 25 excellent sets, while Abegail Pono added 26, helping NU convert 65 attacks. Shaira Jardio recorded 18 digs and 11 excellent receptions.
“We’re happy because we’re champions. Congratulations also to UST because they’ve been playing well, they’re really strong. We’ve gauged what we can do,” said first-year NU coach Regine Diego.
“Hopefully, you get to see more of us in the future. Hopefully, we can defend our title not just here but also in the UAAP,” Diego added.
Xyza Gula led UST with 16 points, followed by Julia Balingit (13), Regina Jurado (12), and Marga Altea (11). Angge Poyos missed the match due to injury.
Individual awards also went to Jardio (Best Libero), Jurado (Best Opposite Spiker), Shaina Nitura (1st Best Outside Spiker), Gula (2nd Best Outside Spiker), Chams Maaya (1st Best Middle Blocker), and Altea (2nd Best Middle Blocker).