NATIONAL University reasserted its dominance over University of Santo Tomas, 25-21, 22-25, 25-17, 25-15, to complete a rare four-peat in UAAP men’s volleyball before 17,089 fans at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
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Despite losing to UST twice in the elimination round, NU scored the victories that mattered to complete a sweep of the best-of-three finals. NU took Game 1, 25-17, 26-24, 25-19.
The Bulldogs became the first team to accomplish a four-peat since UST did the trick from Season 70 to 73.
“Sobrang thankful kasi nakita ko na sa mga player ko pagpunta pa lang namin dito na gusto na nilang kunin itong championship,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
Fittingly, graduating spiker Nico Almendras delivered the decisive blows for the Bulldogs, pushing them to match point with a precise crosscourt kill and sealing the victory with a powerful hammer through the block of Popoy Colinares and Jay Rack Dela Noche. The championship was secured in one hour and 54 minutes.
After the Golden Spikers equalized in the second frame with a 25-22 victory, National U's response left UST stunned, shocked, and paralyzed.
Led by Michaelo Buddin, Almendras, and Leo Aringo, the Bulldogs dominated the third set, leading by as much as 20-9, moving a set away from their sixth overall divisional crown.
Sophomore outside spiker Buddin tallied a game-high 28 points with 22 attacks, five blocks, and one ace, along with 16 receptions—a pivotal presence after missing their two elimination round games against UST.
Leo Aringo contributed 22 points, including 18 attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while Almendras closed his collegiate career with 20 points and 17-of-21 excellent receptions.
Graduating playmaker Owa Retamar orchestrated the offense with 26 excellent sets and three points, earning him the Finals MVP title for the second consecutive year. Retamar also notched 24 excellent sets and five points in Game 1.
“Nakakaproud yung team namin. Nung nagmeeting kami nung team, sinabi ko sa kanila kapag nag champion tayo ngayon magtutuloy-tuloy yan kasi madadala niyo yung pride ng pagiging champion,” said Retamar.
The Bulldogs' blocking prowess proved pivotal, as they notched 16 rejections compared to the Golden Spikers' three.
Volleyball enthusiasts were treated to a display of skillful play, with minimal errors from both teams—NU committed only 13 errors, while UST had just 12.
Back-to-back league MVP Josh Ybañez led the charge for the Golden Spikers with 24 points and seven digs, while Gboy De Vega contributed 15 points and 15 receptions.
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