THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses triumphed over the Adamson Lady Falcons in a thrilling four-set battle, 25-21, 20-25, 25-13, 27-25, in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament Saturday (01 Mar 2025) at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite a standout performance from Adamson’s super rookie Shai Nitura, who scored 28 points, the Tigresses extended their winning streak to three matches. UST’s victory was sealed when Nitura’s attack went into the net, giving the Tigresses a hard-earned win.

The Tigresses bounced back from their season-opening loss to Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws and followed up their five-set triumph over La Salle last Wednesday with another impressive showing.

“I’m very satisfied even though we went four sets because the players stuck to the game plan and fought hard,” said Yani Fernandez, assistant coach to Kungfu Reyes.

UST’s Janine Poyos was a standout with 21 points, eight receptions, and five digs, earning a victory in her first-ever showdown with Nitura at the collegiate level. “It felt amazing to face Shaina again because we played against each other in high school. I admire her leadership and maturity on the court, she truly leads her team,” Poyos shared.

Reg Jurado was also instrumental in the win, contributing a match-high three blocks and 17 points, along with seven digs and seven receptions. Pia Abbu added 10 points, including two service aces. Setter Cassie Carballo had 20 excellent sets, while libero Det Pepito totaled 13 digs and nine receptions.

In the men’s division, the five-peat-seeking National University Bulldogs bounced back from a tough loss to FEU by defeating University of the East in four sets, 25-20, 23-25, 25-23, 25-15. The Bulldogs are now 3-1 and remain in joint second place.

NU’s Leo Ordiales led the team with 18 points, including four blocks, while Buds Buddin added 16 points, three blocks, and solid all-around stats. Leo Aringo also chipped in with 15 kills and 24 receptions. UE managed to take a set but couldn’t keep up with the Bulldogs in the final frame.

“We knew from the start that even though we took the first set, we were still affected by our previous loss. But I’m glad to see us bounce back in the fourth set,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

Meanwhile, UST’s men’s team also continued its undefeated run, sweeping Adamson, 25-18, 25-15, 25-23, despite missing injured spiker Josh Ybañez. UST’s resilience was on display, with newcomers Alche Gupiteo and JJ Macam stepping up. Macam finished with 13 points, including three service aces and two blocks, while Jay Rack Dela Noche and Popoy Colinares added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

“The team has matured, especially during pressure moments. They were more consistent and showed great presence of mind in the crucial stages,” said UST assistant coach Ben Mape.