THREE-PEAT-SEEKING National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs and the De La Salle University Lady Spikers are set for another title showdown as they clash in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament Finals on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Game 1 of the best-of-three championship series tips off at 5 p.m., with both teams eyeing supremacy in what has become a defining rivalry of the modern UAAP era.
NU has been the league’s dominant force since Season 84, winning three titles, including back-to-back championships in Seasons 86 and 87. Its only stumble came in Season 85, when Angel Canino powered La Salle to the crown as a rookie.
While La Salle boasts a decorated history with 12 titles, NU’s resurgence began with a perfect season in Season 84 led by then-rookie Bella Belen. Since then, the Lady Bulldogs have remained a Finals fixture, returning for the fifth straight season.
Despite the departure of key stars Belen and Alyssa Solomon, NU has retooled behind rising talents, including rookie Sam Cantada, who played a key role in their Finals return.
However, Cantada’s status remains uncertain after suffering a left foot injury during their stepladder semifinal win over University of Santo Tomas on May 2.
The Lady Bulldogs will lean on their veteran core of Vange Alinsug, Arah Panique, Lams Lamina and Shaira Jardio as they try to sustain their dynasty under head coach Regine Diego.
On the other side, La Salle enters the Finals brimming with confidence after completing a flawless 14-0 elimination round sweep — its first since Season 74.
Bannered by Canino, along with Shevana Laput, Amie Provido and breakout performer Shane Reterta, the Lady Spikers are determined to end NU’s reign.
Head coach Ramil De Jesus is eyeing his 13th UAAP title in 26 seasons, adding to a legacy that includes over 320 career wins.
Adding another layer to the rivalry is Diego’s personal subplot, as the former La Salle libero (2006–2009) now faces her longtime mentor De Jesus from the opposite bench.
With history, pride and legacy on the line, the latest chapter of the NU-La Salle rivalry promises another thrilling battle for the UAAP crown.
