Fina Ali made a grand debut in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament by rescuing the University of the Philippines from the brink of defeat.
Still raw at just 18 years old, Ali showed her potential as Ateneo de Manila University raced to a two-set lead, 25-17, 25-19, putting UP on the back foot.
The 6-foot Nigerian opposite spiker delivered six points in the third set alone, helping the Fighting Maroons fight back and extend the match, 22-25.
Ali continued to be a key contributor as UP completed its stunning comeback against Ateneo, 17-25, 19-25, 25-22, 25-23, 16-14, maintaining its undefeated record in the tournament on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Despite being the pivotal factor in the Fighting Maroons’ turnaround, Ali shared the credit with her teammates.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“When I went onto the court, I didn’t change the game. I believe we all did it. We adapted to the system, and from there, everything happened,” said Ali.
Niña Ytang led UP with 15 points, Irah Jaboneta added 14, while Casiey Dongallo contributed 13.
Even while deflecting credit, Ali reflected on her debut after training with the team for the past two years. She finished with 13 points in her first game in a Fighting Maroon uniform, including four crucial points in the fifth set.
“I would say I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’ve been here for two seasons already, but I wasn’t able to play. Today, being my first game, I suddenly happened to be the one who changed the game. My confidence is really boosted now,” said Ali.
“I feel I can do even better. This is a positive sign for me, reminding me that I have more to give. I can do it. I really can.”
#WATCH: CONFIDENCE-BOOSTER ✊
After her performance against Ateneo, Fina Ali is motivated to be better for the rest of #UAAPSeason88#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/9itUc92CdK
📹 @ErnestTuazon /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/kdIo9Fn8GI
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) February 22, 2026
