UST juniors clinched the 2026 Shakey’s Juniors National Invitationals title after a five‑set victory over St. John’s Institute of Bacolod. The match took place at the Playtime FilOil Arena in San Juan. The final score was 25‑19, 25‑23, 23‑25, 18‑25, 19‑17. The win secured UST’s first championship in the tournament’s inaugural edition.
Nicole Pelaez earned tournament MVP honors with 27 points, 24 successful attacks, two blocks and an ace. She led the team after a prior victory in the Rising Stars Cup. Supporting players Jyrah Romias, Anneli Manzanillo, and Eliz Menchavez contributed key plays throughout the competition. Their combined effort helped maintain the team's momentum.
Coach Yani Fernandez highlighted the turning point in the fifth set, noting a shift in body language and determination that changed the match’s trajectory. UST survived multiple deuce moments, with Pelaez delivering a decisive kill followed by an error from opponent Kristel Mirasol. The match extended nearly three hours, featuring a dramatic comeback from a 22‑20 lead that was overturned by the Falcons. The final set saw several ties until Pelaez asserted leadership to secure the win.
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