If you’re a die-hard volleyball fan—or just getting into the rhythm of UAAP Season 87—this Saturday’s lineup is something you don’t want to miss. We’re talking rivalry hits, redemption arcs, and dominant performances that have got us all on the edge of our seats. And yes, while Panaad Stadium usually steals the spotlight in Bacolod, this time we bring the action to the heart of Manila: the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Let’s break it down—you grab your snacks, and let’s talk weekend volleyball mayhem.
Saturday Showdowns at a Glance
📍 Venue: Smart Araneta Coliseum
🗓️ Date: Saturday
🕘 Game Times:
- 9 a.m. – UE vs UST (Men’s Division)
- 11 a.m. – Adamson vs FEU (Men’s Division)
- 1 p.m. – UE vs UST (Women’s Division)
- 3 p.m. – Adamson vs FEU (Women’s Division)
Whether you’re rooting from the bleachers or screaming at the screen, these matchups are set to bring intensity, drama, and all the volleyball feels.
NU Lady Bulldogs Bounce Back—Hard
Let’s rewind just a bit to what went down earlier this week. National University’s Lady Bulldogs came into their match against University of the East with something to prove—and boy, did they deliver. We’re talking clinical, crushing, and oh-so-convincing.
Final score:
🔹 NU def. UE — 25-8, 25-22, 25-12
And they did it in style—finishing the match in just 72 minutes. That’s three sets of pure hustle that sent a loud and clear message: NU is not messing around.
Star of the Show: Bella Belen
Reigning MVP Bella Belen was back in full force, leading the charge with:
- 🔸 16 Points (14 kills, 2 aces)
- 🔸 13 Digs
- 🔸 8 Excellent Receptions
All while mentoring her younger teammates and picking up where she left off before that painful loss to Adamson. That’s what leadership looks like, folks.
In her own words:
“I’m happy that we’re able to bounce back after that stinging loss. I reminded the team to keep that fire—especially against teams lower in the rankings. There’s no room to relax now.”
📌 Quick Stat Check:
- NU Record: 10-2
- UE Record: 0-12 (Time to regroup, Lady Warriors!)
Supporting Cast Matters
Even without Alyssa Solomon—recovering from a left ankle sprain—the NU squad delivered. Vange Alinsug, Aishat Bello, Erin Pangilinan, and Celine Marsh all pitched in with balanced scoring to prove NU’s depth runs deep.
Men’s Division: FEU on Fire, NU Clinches a Spot
It wasn’t just the women lighting up the court. FEU and NU delivered strong performances in the men’s division as well—with Final Four stakes on the line.
FEU vs Ateneo
Final score:
🟢 FEU def. Ateneo — 25-21, 19-25, 25-23, 25-23
That win brings FEU to 11-1, officially punching their ticket with a win-once semis bonus. Talk about clutch.
NU vs UE
Final score:
🔵 NU def. UE — 25-21, 25-17, 25-16
And with that, NU books its Final Four slot as well. The Men’s Division is heating up, and these teams are not taking any chances.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Saturday’s Games
Here’s the thing—even if you’re not deep into the volleyball universe, these games will grab your attention. The rivalries run deep, the competition is fierce, and the stakes are higher than ever.
- Will UST sweep UE and boost their tournament stock?
- Can FEU’s men and women continue their commanding run?
- Will Adamson pull off another surprise upset?
All eyes are set on the Smart Araneta Coliseum this Saturday, and we’re expecting nothing less than electrifying rallies, intense dugouts, and potential postseason deciders.
Looking Ahead: All Roads Lead to the Final Four
As NU and FEU solidify their dominance, teams are scrambling for position as we inch closer to the semis. Every point, every set, every game matters now. And the dream? Still alive for some.
So whether you’re watching courtside or live-streaming with your UAAP squad, clear your schedule. The drama, the drive, and the desire for volleyball glory hit a fever pitch this weekend.
Stay updated on more game schedules, live results, and all-things UAAP at Panaad Stadium’s official site.
Game time, folks. Let’s goooo! 🏐🔥