NU clinches rare fifth straight crown in UAAP men's volleyball
National University won its fifth straight title after sweeping Far Eastern University, 25-16, 28-26, 25-23, in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 87 men's volleyball finals on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
In the third set, the Tamaraws had a chance to extend the match as they led 17-14, with Dryx Saavedra leading the offense for the Morayta crew. Leo Ordiales and Greg Ancheta eventually tied the set at 17 before Saavedra and Luis Miguel put FEU in front.
Buds Buddin's attack, followed by an FEU error, evened the set at 19 before Miguel put the Tamaraws in front as they continued their bid to extend the match. Eventually, the likes of Buddin and Peng Taguibolos stepped up for NU as errors marred FEU's late attempt, helping the Bulldogs to their cause.
Ordiales had 13 points from 10 attacks and three blocks, while Taguibolos and Buddin chipped in 10 and nine points, respectively.
Leo Aringo, who was named Most Valuable Player of the Finals series, had nine points to go with 10 excellent receptions and four digs. He also had 8.7 points, 11.3 receptions and 4.3 digs in the finals series.
The win spoiled Saavedra's 24 point eruption for the Tamaraws.
While FEU led in attacks with 43 against 39, errors did not help their attempt as they had 78 against NU's 65.
FEU took Game 1 before NU won the next two in the best-of-three series.
This is NU's seventh overall title in men's volleyball, with their championship streak dating back to UAAP Season 80 in 2018.
Aside from the men's title, NU also reigned in the women's and girls division this season.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
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