UST came close to ending NU’s dynastic reign last year but fell short in the Final Four, and now the Golden Spikers see UAAP Season 88 as their chance to make an early statement.
There is still no love lost for the UST Golden Spikers.
Facing the team that has caused heartbreak over the past three years, UST eyes a statement win in a marquee UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball match against five-time defending champion NU on Sunday, February 15, at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
First serve is at 11:00 a.m., with the match streaming on the Pilipinas Live app. It will also air on the UAAP Varsity Channel.
[RELATED: SCHEDULE | UAAP Season 88 volleyball guide, where to watch]
UST fell short of a third consecutive finals appearance after losing to the Bulldogs in the Final Four last season.
The Golden Spikers also dropped championship series matchups in Seasons 85 and 86 — both against NU.
Two-time MVP Josh Ybañez is expected to once again banner a UST side that retains much of its core, including last season’s second-best outside spiker JJ Macam, setter Dux Yambao, and Gboy De Vega and Trevor Valera.
[RELATED: Josh Ybañez banks on Alas learnings as he leads UST in UAAP Season 88]
With a new season underway, the Golden Spikers look to send an early message against their modern-day rivals.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
[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.]