In a commanding display of power, precision, and poise, the DLSU Lady Spikers extended their unbeaten run to 10-0 and became the first team to punch their ticket to the Final Four in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball. On March 29, 2026, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, DLSU dismantled the UP Fighting Maroons in straight sets with scores of 25-15, 25-18, and 25-20, handing UP yet another tough loss in Round 2.
The match, captured in full-game highlights by One Sports, showcased why the Lady Spikers are the undisputed team to beat this season. From explosive attacks to airtight defense and flawless setting, DLSU looked every bit the championship favorite.
Set 1: Green Storm Takes Control (25-15)
DLSU wasted no time asserting dominance. Early chance balls turned into thunderous spikes, with Angel Canino delivering a hard cross-court kill right off a perfect setup from rookie setter Eshana Nunag. The score was tied at 4-4 initially, but a 3-0 run forced UP into a timeout.
The Lady Spikers then pulled away with relentless combination plays. Shevana Laput (also referred to as Shivana in some reports) exploded off the bench after missing previous action, hammering back-to-back points with powerful pushes. Nunag, already earning Rookie of the Year buzz, served an ace from the front line and orchestrated multiple out-of-system plays that looked perfectly in rhythm.
UP’s standout middle blocker Niña Ytang (Nya Itang) fought back with soft-touch attacks and blocks, but DLSU’s tight net defense and Canino’s varied spiking—mixing slides, crosses, and power shots—proved too much. The set ended with a service ace from DLSU, giving them a commanding 1-0 lead.
Set 2: Veteran Leadership Shines (25-18)
Momentum stayed firmly with La Salle. Nunag continued her masterclass in setting, finding open spots for Laput and Canino even on broken plays. Laput, the team captain, was unstoppable in transition, while Canino switched mid-air on multiple attacks to evade UP’s blockers.
UP showed resilience with strong digs and blocks from Ytang (who finished with 8 points, many from slide attacks) and Kianne Olango (7 points). A video challenge confirmed a crucial point for DLSU after an antenna touch review. Despite some long rallies and deadlocks, DLSU pulled ahead with organized defense and clinical finishing. Another error-free sequence sealed the set at 25-18.
Set 3: Match Point Magic (25-20)
UP refused to go quietly, tying the set at 11-11 with sharp slide attacks from Ytang and some surprise setting from Julia de Leon. But DLSU’s experience took over. Long exchanges ended in DLSU’s favor thanks to stellar digs and blocks.
Canino served up an ace for match point after a brilliant two-away setup. Nunag’s setting remained flawless throughout, running the offense with veteran composure despite being a rookie. The final point came on another DLSU service ace, clinching the 3-0 sweep and sending the Lady Spikers into the Final Four for the 16th straight postseason appearance.
Standout Performances
- Eshana Nunag (Player of the Game): The rookie setter was the heartbeat of the offense, recording an impressive 15 excellent sets. Her vision, tempo, and ability to elevate teammates were game-changing.
- Shevana Laput: 16 points (14 attacks, 2 blocks). She made up for lost time with explosive attacks and steady passing.
- Angel Canino: 15-16 points (13 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace). The veteran leader was in beast mode, varying her attacks and breaking blocks at will.
- UP’s Niña Ytang: Led the Maroons with 8 points, primarily through middle blocking and slides, but the team’s efforts couldn’t overcome DLSU’s cohesion.
DLSU also dominated in serving (multiple aces) and blocking, turning UP’s defensive efforts into limited opportunities.
What This Means for UAAP Season 88
With the win, DLSU not only secured the top spot and the first Final Four berth but also sent a clear message: they are playing at an elite level. Coach Ramil de Jesus and his squad have emphasized preparation and respect for every opponent—and it’s paying off in perfection.
UP, meanwhile, continues to show fight but needs to convert defensive stands into consistent scoring if they hope to turn their season around.
The Lady Spikers’ undefeated streak and clinical execution make them the clear frontrunners heading into the business end of the season. As the tournament heats up, all eyes will be on whether anyone can finally slow down this green machine.
Animo La Salle! The Legends Start Here. 🏐💚
Video Source: YouTube
Stay tuned to One Sports and UAAP coverage for more highlights, stats, and postseason previews. Who will join DLSU in the Final Four? The race is on!
