NATIONAL University marched to the championship round after beating Letran in straight sets, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21, in the semifinals of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals, Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Still unbeaten in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Team Rebel Sports and Mikasa, the Lady Bulldogs will face either College of St. Benilde or Far Eastern University in the best-of-3 finals, with Game 1 set for Monday afternoon at the same venue.

“Happy na nanalo kami and will play in the championship. Everybody played their role pero need pa rin talaga ng connections especially ‘yung mga new players,” NU head coach Norman Miguel said.

Veteran hitter Mhicaela Belen tallied 18 points on 14 kills, three aces and a block, while Arah Ella Panique added 9 points as the reigning UAAP champion Lady Bulldogs rolled to their fourth straight win.

The two were able to play after the Japan training camp of the Alas Pilipinas national team was moved to a later date.

Erin Pangilinan chipped in 8 points while Vange Alinsug and Aishat Bello scored six apiece for NU.

Gia Marcel Maquilang paced Letran with 12 points, while Nizelle Aeriyen Martin contributed 10 points, including five in the third set.

The battle for the bronze medal is also a best-of-three affair.