MANILA — Noel Kampton may have been celebrating his 25th birthday, but it was his heroic 27-point performance that led De La Salle University to a thrilling five-set win over archrivals Ateneo de Manila University.

Kampton’s explosive stats included 23 attacks, three blocks, one ace, and 12 excellent receptions, while substitute Yoyong Mendoza delivered crucial plays in the final moments.

La Salle triumphed 21-25, 25-18, 21-25, 25-22, 27-25, securing a tie for third place in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum.

This victory came after a tough loss to the University of Santo Tomas, and it leveled La Salle’s record with Ateneo at 6-4.

The win also completed a season sweep for the Green Spikers over the Blue Eagles, following their first-round victory on March 12. It marked La Salle’s fourth consecutive win over Ateneo, dating back to last season.

Reflecting on the victory, Kampton shared, “I told Coach Jose Roque not to put me in anymore because the players who replaced me were doing great, but he trusted me. This win was his birthday gift to me.” Kampton also expressed his happiness, as this was his first birthday win in the UAAP, a stark contrast to past birthday losses.

The match stretched to an intense 36-minute fifth set, the longest of the season. La Salle had to fight back from two separate four-point deficits, with Ateneo’s MVP frontrunner, Kennedy Batas, putting them on match point at 13-14. A costly double contact error by Ateneo’s setter, Enzo Gutierrez, kept La Salle’s hopes alive, forcing an extended battle.

After saving eight match points, La Salle finally clinched victory. Mendoza’s timely attacks pushed La Salle to match point, and MJ Fortuna sealed the win with a crucial block on a down-the-line shot from Ateneo’s Jian Salarzon.

La Salle head coach Jose Roque praised his team’s resilience, saying, “It wasn’t just about the skills but about how they fought for themselves in the fifth set. Their determination was evident.”

La Salle’s Ron Maglinao led the way with 22 points, while Rui Ventura added 10. La Salle will face the University of the East on Saturday, while Ateneo aims to bounce back against the Golden Spikers.