SHAINA SHINES: Nitura shatters UAAP rookie scoring record

Adamson University clawed its way back from the brink of defeat to pull off a thrilling 21-25, 20-25, 25-12, 25-15, 15-12 reverse sweep against Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Rookie sensation Shaina Nitura delivered a record-breaking performance, erupting for 33 points built on 28 attacks, four blocks, and an ace while also contributing five digs and seven receptions.

The Adamson homegrown talent shattered the UAAP rookie scoring record set by University of Santo Tomas’ Angge Poyos last season and matched the 33-point mark set by Angela Benting in 2009.

With Nitura leading the charge, the Lady Falcons staged a dominant comeback after trailing 0-2, taking control in the third and fourth sets to force a deciding frame.

Nitura remained relentless in the fifth set, firing three consecutive attacks to give Adamson an early 3-2 edge before roofing Lyann de Guzman for a 9-7 advantage.

Frances Mordi then sealed the victory with a clutch attack past the double block of AC Miner and Taks Fujimoto.

Mordi finished with 23 points, including 16 attacks, five blocks, and two aces, while Jen Villegas added eight points in the absence of Mayang Nuique, who suffered an early-game injury.

Miner, who transitioned from middle blocker to opposite hitter, led Ateneo with a team-high 17 points, while Yvana Sulit and Zel Tsunashima each tallied 10 points.

Ateneo’s woes got worse when Tsunashima suffered a left knee injury in the closing moments of the fifth set after landing on a teammate’s foot. The third-year spiker had to be stretchered off the court, grimacing in pain as she clutched her knee.

In men’s action, Ateneo kicked off its campaign on a high note, overcoming a third-set hiccup to defeat Adamson, 25-17, 25-19, 22-25, 25-23.

The Blue Eagles, under new head coach Vince Mangulabnan, dominated the first two sets before faltering in the third. However, they quickly regained composure behind the efforts of Marc Paulino and Ahmed Tahiluddin to secure the win.

Meanwhile, defending champion National University (NU) flashed its fangs, sweeping De La Salle University, 25-22, 25-22, 25-19, to open its title defense in style.

“I’m thankful for the outcome of our win because we were able to execute everything we wanted on the court,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

“I’m also very thankful for my players’ performance because it was truly a team effort. I hope this continues,” he added.

The Bulldogs’ precise execution and well-rounded play proved too much for the Green Spikers, who struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match.