Photo: UAAP

By Nate Castillo

Three-peat-seeking National University and Adamson University battle for a second win in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion.  

All eyes are on the much-anticipated showdown between the Lady Bulldog’s top freshman Sam Cantada and Season 87 Rookie of Year Shaina Nitura of the Lady Falcons in the 11 a.m. encounter. 

Photo: UAAP

Nitura led Adamson to a dominating 25-19, 25-18, 25-10, win over Ateneo de Manila University last Sunday.

The Alas Pilipinas standout believes a collective team effort will give the Lady Falcons a better chance at beating powerhouse NU.

Photo: UAAP

 “As you can see, we are a complete team. If ever Abby (Segui) is off, we have an opposite to fill in. If I’m off, Lana (Barrera) is there. We also have Red (Bascon), Joy (Aseo), one of our rookies, and Ate Barbie (Jamili),” Nitura said.

Cantada, an 18-year-old transferee from Adamson high school, stepped up big time down the stretch to rescue NU in a thrilling, 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24, escape three days ago at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“I know that team very well. They won’t let us win that easily. But there’s no letting up on our side also. We’ll play our best,” she said.

Meanwhile, Far Eastern University and University of the East meet at 5 p.m. to barge into the win column after dropping their openers.