NU sweeps La Salle to open bid for UAAP men's volleyball 5-peat

National University opened its bid for a fifth straight men's volleyball title with a 25-22, 25-22, 25-19 victory against De La Salle University in UAAP Season 87 on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bulldogs reached match point, 24-18, before Rui Ventura salvaged one to extend the Green Spikers' life. However, Ordiales made the finisher to clinch NU's victory after losing stars Owa Retamar and Nico Almendras.

Leo Aringo had 20 points anchored on 18 attacks, while Michaelo Buddin added 20 points for the 5-peat-seeking Bulldogs.

Yoyong Mendoza led the Taft-based squad with 10 points, while Noel Kampton had nine points.

Earlier, Ateneo de Manila University defeated Adamson University, 25-17, 25-19, 22-25, 25-23, to give its new head coach Vince Mangulabnan a winning debut.

Kennedy Batas imposed his will with 24 points from 17 attacks, five blocks, and two aces, while Amil Pacinio Jr. added 18 points for the Blue Eagles.

Marc Kenneth Paulino led the Soaring Falcons with 13 points, while Ahmed Tahiluddin added 11 points.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News