UAAP women’s volleyball: Rookie Sam Cantada leads NU past UST to open title defense bid

Rookie Sam Cantada powered National University past University of Santo Tomas, 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24, to kick off its title defense in the UAAP Season 88 on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Cantada finished with 21 points built on 17 attacks, three aces, and a block. The first-year standout delivered in crunch time, sparking a late rally in the fourth set as the Lady Bulldogs overturned a 19-23 deficit to seal the victory.

In addition to her offensive output, Cantada was a pillar of NU’s defense with 14 excellent receptions.

Two other Lady Bulldogs reached double figures, with veteran Vange Alinsug contributing 18 points and Arah Panique adding 15.

For UST, Angge Poyos paced the Golden Tigresses with 18 points, while Avril Bron, Xyza Gula, and Julia Balingit chipped in 10 points apiece.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News