The Mall of Asia Arena will be the epicenter of collegiate volleyball this Wednesday, hosting two championship clashes that promise intense drama and unforgettable moments.
The day begins at noon with a men’s finals rematch between the formidable Far Eastern University Tamaraws and the five-time champion National University Bulldogs, a battle of titans seeking to claim the crown.
But the spotlight truly ignites at 5 p.m. when the De La Salle University Lady Spikers and the National University Lady Bulldogs collide in the first game of the best-of-three women’s finals – a rivalry that has defined the sport in recent years.
This isn’t just a championship series; it’s a story of dynasty versus redemption. National University aims for an unprecedented three-peat, while De La Salle seeks to break through and reclaim their place at the pinnacle of collegiate volleyball.
La Salle’s journey to the finals was a statement of dominance, a flawless 14-0 sweep of the elimination round that earned them an automatic berth and reshaped the playoff landscape.
That perfect record denied National University the twice-to-beat advantage, forcing the defending champions to fight their way through a grueling Final Four gauntlet against Adamson University and University of Santo Tomas.
For La Salle, this championship run is more than just about a title; it’s about exorcising the demons of a past foiled four-peat attempt, a quest for vindication after heartbreak in Season 76.
The memory of losing to Alyssa Valdez and Ateneo in 2014 still stings, fueling the Lady Spikers’ determination to rewrite their ending this time around, led by captain Shevana Laput and star Angel Canino.
National University, however, is a force built on consistency and championship pedigree, even after the graduation of key players like Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.
New mentor Regine Diego, a former player under the legendary Ramil de Jesus at La Salle, hopes to guide the Lady Bulldogs to their fourth title in five seasons, relying on the leadership of Vange Alinsug and Lams Lamina.
Diego acknowledges the challenge, playfully vowing to “out-discipline” her former coach, knowing that La Salle’s strength lies in its meticulous preparation and unwavering focus.
While La Salle enjoyed a two-week break, National University arrives with momentum, having battled through a hard-fought victory over UST in the Final Four, showcasing their resilience and championship mettle.
National University previously achieved a perfect 16-0 season in 2022, and they are determined to replicate that dominance, extending their reign and solidifying their status as the premier volleyball program in the league.
This Wednesday, the Mall of Asia Arena will witness a clash of wills, a battle of strategies, and a display of athleticism that will captivate fans and define a new chapter in the storied rivalry between La Salle and National University.
