Four teams tussle for the crown in UAAP men’s volleyball, with the league-leading FEU Tamaraws and the five-peat seeking NU Bulldogs among the favorites.
Four teams tussle for the crown in UAAP men’s volleyball, with league-leading FEU and five-peat seeking NU among the favorites.
After weeks of thrilling action, UAAP Season 87 men's volleyball heads into its final stretch with an all-too-familiar quartet making the Final Four — but with new stakes, renewed fire, and a shot at redemption for all four semifinalists.
FEU Tamaraws (13-1): Redemption run for the top seed
At the top of the heap are the FEU Tamaraws, who marched through the eliminations with poise and dominance, ending with a 13-1 slate. But for Dryx Saavedra, Mikko Espartero, and Ariel Cacao, the true test begins now.
After collapsing in the semis last season despite holding the No. 1 seed and a twice-to-beat advantage, the Tamaraws are determined not to repeat history.
Their four-game win streak heading into the Final Four suggests a team peaking at the right time.
But standing in their way is a gritty DLSU Green Spikers squad looking to defy the odds.
For FEU, the mission is clear: turn regular season dominance into long-awaited championship glory — their first since Season 74.
NU Bulldogs (12-2): Dynasty on the line
Second seed NU may have shown vulnerability this season, but make no mistake — the four-time defending champions remain the gold standard.
Anchored by a lethal mix of experience and emerging leadership, the Jade Disquitado, Leo Aringo, Obed Mukaba, and Buds Buddin-led Bulldogs are eyeing a historic five-peat.
With Owa Retamar having moved on, NU’s young playmakers have risen to the challenge, seamlessly fitting into Coach Dante Alinsunurin’s system.
Now they face a familiar foe in UST, their finals rival from a season ago — a matchup that promises fireworks as both sides look to settle unfinished business.
UST Golden Spikers (9-5): Giant slayers reloaded
The UST Golden Spikers made history last season by becoming the first No. 4 seed to reach the UAAP men’s volleyball finals.
This year, they’re once again in the thick of the fight, led by talisman Josh Ybañez, versatile attacker Paul Colinares, and a crew hardened by last year’s deep run.
Their path is no easier this time, needing to beat powerhouse NU twice.
But if there’s any team that thrives in the underdog role, it’s UST. With chemistry, experience, and momentum on their side, the Golden Spikers are aiming for another Cinderella finish — and possibly, revenge.
DLSU Green Spikers (9-5): Kampton’s last dance
For Noel Kampton, it’s now or never.
Returning for one final season, the explosive scorer hopes to lead La Salle to its first title since the reinstitution of the men’s division.
The Green Spikers, who’ve shown flashes of brilliance — including a key win over NU — will need to summon their best when they face the top-seeded Tamaraws.
With Vince Maglinao, Rui Ventura, and a supporting cast capable of keeping pace, La Salle is banking on consistency to pull off an upset.
Twice-to-win odds are steep, but in the Final Four, belief and execution make all the difference.
The stage is set. Legacies are on the line. Whether it’s redemption, history, revenge, or a fairytale ending — UAAP Season 87’s men’s volleyball Final Four has all the makings of a classic.
(With reports from Luisa Morales)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]