MANILA – National University Lady Bulldogs displayed firepower to score a 25-21, 20-25, 25-20, 25-17 victory over the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and rule the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals – Davao Leg on Sunday at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gym in Davao City.
Rookie Sam Cantada, who was named Best Player of the Davao Leg, connived with Negrense Arah Panique and skipper Vange Alinsug to power the Lady Bulldogs to a repeat crown in the tournament.
The trio willed the Lady Bulldogs back after surrendering the second frame to complete a three-game sweep of the competition.
Panique exploded for 25 points off 21 attacks, two aces and two kill blocks while Cantada, the Shakey’s Girls’ Volleyball Invitationals Most Valuable Player, delivered 16 markers anchored on 11 kills and five service winners.
Alinsug added 13 points, while Camilla Lamina tallied 23 excellent setsfor the Lady Bulldogs, who peppered the Fighting Maroons with 61 attack points and nine aces while hosting a block party with 10 kill blocks.
The victory over its tough UAAP rival also gave Lady Bulldogs head coach Sherwin Meneses a chance to gauge his rebuilding team following some key departures, including three-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.
“Siyempre sabi ko nga sa kanila walang may gustong mawala ang mga star players namin pero pwede ng tularan at higitan. Yun ang sabi ko naman sa kanila. Ayun yung mga naiwan na seniors maganda ang pagkahawak nila sa mga rookies namin,” said Meneses.
Casiey Dongallo was the lone Fighting Maroons player in double figures with 20 points, Kianne Olango scored nine while Nina Ytang and Louise Bansil had seven each. They settled for a runner up finish.
After the Davao City leg, action in the three-leg competition will resume on August 22 to 24 in Cebu City at the University of San Carlos Gymnasium.
Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles and Adamson University Lady Falcons will test the mettle of host school USC and University of Southern Philippines Foundation./PN
