Fresh off a championship run in the V-League Collegiate Challenge, National University-Archipelago Builders carried its winning momentum into the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, opening its campaign with a four-set victory over VNS-Always Bright, 25-14, 25-13, 20-25, 25-12, on Tuesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Just last week, the Bulldogs capped their V-League campaign by dethroning UAAP archrivals Far Eastern University Tamaraws in the finale, and they showed little sign of slowing down as they began their Spikers’ Turf title bid on a winning note.
NU dominated the opening two sets before the Griffins mounted a comeback in the third. The Bulldogs, however, quickly regained control in the fourth to seal the victory and join Criss Cross, Far Eastern University-DN Steel, Clearskiiin, and Alpha Insurance among the early leaders with 1-0 records.
RK Medino, who came through the VNS program under coach Ralph Ocampo before joining NU, showcased his growth against his former team, finishing with 15 points on 10 attacks, four blocks, and one ace. He also delivered the game-winning hit that sealed the Bulldogs’ victory.
“Unang-una, nagpapasalamat ako sa Spikers’ Turf kasi nabigyan ulit kami ng chance na maglaro dito. Siguro sa game namin naging maganda lang ‘yung control sa service receive namin kaya ‘yung offense namin lumabas,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
“Thankful ako sa naging performance ni RK, siyempre, sa dating team niya. Sobrang ganda ng pinakita niya lalo sa depensa,” he added.
Obed Mukaba led the Bulldogs with 17 points on nine attacks and eight kill blocks, while Jade Disquitado also finished with 15 points on 11 attacks and four aces. Disquitado likewise contributed eight excellent receptions and six excellent digs.
Greg Ancheta dished out 16 excellent sets and added two points, while Buds Buddin chipped in 12 markers in the one-hour, 37-minute victory.
NU’s blocking proved to be the biggest difference between the two teams, as the Bulldogs recorded 18 kill blocks compared to just five for the Griffins. NU also held the advantage in attacks, 46-36, and service aces, 5-2, underscoring its dominance in the match.
The Bulldogs will next face Alpha Insurance on Thursday at 3 p.m. at the same venue.
Meanwhile, Jau Umandal paced VNS with 19 points, all from attacks, while Julius Arcillo added eight markers in the loss.
The Griffins will look to bounce back against FEU on Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
