NATIONAL University set its three-years-in-the-making title defense in motion with a 25-23, 25-11, 25-20 win over Ateneo de Manila University, Saturday in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Rookie Michaelo Buddin produced 13 points in his debut including four blocks to go with 11 excellent receptions and six digs.
Nico Almendras chipped in 12 points, while transferee Kennry Malinis had 11 points to go with nine excellent digs.
“Nagpapasalamat kami sa UAAP na binigyan ulit kami ng pagkakataon na magkaroon ulit ng men’s division at sobrang saya ako sa naging performance ng team namin kasi matagal namin itong inensayo,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
The Blue Eagles, after trailing the majority of the first set, were able to inch within one, 23-24, before the Bulldogs answered to take the early upper hand.
Then NU just opened the floodgates in the second salvo, not letting Ateneo catch up this time to take a 25-11 blowout win to move on the verge of a sweep.
The Bulldogs were unstoppable at the net, tallying 16 blocks led by 6-foot-6 Congolese Obed Mukaba’s six rejections.
Jian Salarzon was the high man for the Blue Eagles with 12 points and 10 excellent receptions, while Amil Pacinio got nine points, all off attacks.
The Bulldogs will clash with Adamson University on Wednesday at 2 pm while Ateneo will square off against University of the East earlier at 10 am.
