UAAP: Sam Cantada drops 32 as NU outlasts UP in five-setter

Sam Cantada erupted for a career-high 32 points as National University outlasted the University of the Philippines in a five-set thriller, 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Cantada delivered 27 attacks, three blocks, and two aces, while also contributing 18 receptions and 13 digs to power the Lady Bulldogs, who bounced back from their loss to De La Salle University last Sunday.

“Of course, we’re happy. We count all the wins, and this is a good comeback for us. Hopefully, tuloy-tuloy siya,” said NU head coach Regine Diego.

“It’s a challenging time for all the teams because the pressure is higher and the need to win is greater. There are many factors we are trying to manage, but the only thing that pushes us is if we play together,” added the former Lady Bullpups head coach.

Arah Panique provided solid support with 19 points as National University improved to 6-2.

Kianne Olango tallied 20 points, 13 receptions, and nine digs, while Nina Ytang added 13 points for UP, which slipped to 3-5.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News