IN PHOTOS: Ateneo defeats NU to advance to UAAP Volleyball Finals
MANILA, Philippines - The Lady Blue Eagles have done it.
After overcoming a twice-to-beat disadvantage, Ateneo de Manila University defeated the National University Lady Bulldogs in four sets, 25-22, 8-25, 25-19, 25-22, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Saturday, March 1, earning them a shot against the De La Salle University Lady Spikers in the 76th UAAP Women's Volleyball tournament finals.
After tallying in a personal season-high of 29 points in her last outing against NU, Alyssa Valdez added 22 points from 16 attacks, five blocks and an ace to lead Ateneo to its seventh straight win and book a ticket back to the Finals. (READ: Full report by Rappler's Myke Miravite)
Dindin Santiago led National University with 19 points in defeat.
Entering the stepladder semifinal phase with a twice-to-beat handicap, Ateneo displayed resilience and determination as they completed a whimsical turnaround, beating NU three sets to one earlier this week before wrapping up the series with another four-setter against one of the league's hottest teams in the eliminations.
Relive the moments in these photos by Rappler's Josh Albelda.
Ateneo's Jorella Marie G. De Jesus prays for victory. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
National University's Ivy Perez (left) and Aiko Urdas (right) congratulate each other after a point. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
Ateneo's Alyssa Valdez spikes a point past National University's Dindin Santiago and Aiko Urdas. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
National University players, from left: Fatima General, Jaja Santiago, Ivy Perez and Dindin Santiago. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
National University's Ivy Perez (left) and Dindin Santiago (right) begin to feel the pressure. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
A triumphant Alyssa Valdez raises her arms in victory. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
Alyssa Valdez acknowledges the crowd. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
The Ateneo Lady Eagles rejoice in victory. Photo by Josh Albelda/Rappler
