By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs remained unbeaten in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament after sweeping the Adamson University Lady Falcons, 25-23, 25-19, 28-26, at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila on Wednesday, February 18.

Negrense Arah Panique finished with 13 markers, on nine attacks and four blocks, as the defending champion Lady Bulldogs surged to solo first place in the standings with a perfect 2-0 mark.

Sam Cantada once again spearheaded the Lady Bulldogs’ charge, delivering 16 points, built on 13 attacks, two service aces and a block, to go with nine excellent receptions and five excellent digs.

The rookie outside spiker, who previously played for Adamson at the high school level, played a key role in overcoming familiar foes, including Shaina Nitura, Abby Segui and Fhei Sagaysay, in their first collegiate matchup.

The 18-year-old from Cavite’s Dasmariñas City, built on her impressive collegiate debut, where she scored 21 points against UST, and continued to provide firepower for the Lady Bulldogs’ campaign for a third straight championship.

Shaina Nitura top-scored with 18 points, seven excellent receptions, and six excellent digs, while Frances Mordi contributed 17 markers as the Lady Falcons fell to a 1-1 mark.

Meanwhile, the six-peat seeking NU Bulldogs handed Adamson University Falcons a reality check with a 25-13, 25-18, 25-15 sweep in the men’s division action.

Negrense Leo Ordiales finished with 16 points on 11 attacks, three blocks and two aces, along with three excellent digs to lead the Bulldogs.

Michaelo Buddin contributed 15 points and 10 excellent receptions.

Jade Disquitado added 11 points on nine attacks and five excellent receptions, while Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba — given more touches after a scoreless opener against Far Eastern University — had seven points on five attacks, one block and one ace./ASC, WDJ