QUEZON CITY – The University of Santo Tomas (UST) and National University (NU) are set to face off in the finals of the UAAP Season 86 men's and women's volleyball championships. Both teams secured their spots in the finals through impressive semi-final victories.
According to Philippines News Agency, the UST Golden Spikers, ranked fourth, upset the top-seeded Far Eastern University Tamaraws in a thrilling match, marking a historic achievement as it is the first time since the Final Four format was introduced in 2004 that a fourth-ranked team has reached the finals. Josh Ybañez, the reigning Most Valuable Player, led the team with 19 points and 13 excellent receptions. UST's head coach, Odjie Mamon, noted his minimal intervention during the game, trusting his team to perform under pressure.
In contrast, three-time defending champions NU Bulldogs overcame De La Salle University in a tight match to secure their finals berth. NU had swept UST in last year's finals, although UST had the upper hand during this season's elimination rounds.
The women's teams from both universities also advanced to the finals, with UST dethroning the second-seeded De La Salle University on Sunday. The top-seeded NU women's team convincingly defeated FEU in their semi-final match, with Bella Belen scoring 21 points, including five aces.
The finals, dubbed the 'Battle of Sampaloc' after the Manila district both schools are located, will commence this Saturday at the Araneta Coliseum. The men's final is scheduled for 2 p.m., followed by the women's match at 4 p.m. A second game, if necessary, will take place at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on May 15, with potential third games set for May 18 at the same venue.
Meanwhile, in UAAP men's football, UST's Golden Booters are preparing for a critical match against the University of the Philippines Maroons, following a declaration of 'Yellow Day' to rally support. The semi-final match is set for 7 p.m. at the UP Diliman pitch in Quezon City.