Sam Cantada delivered an impressive performance in her UAAP women's volleyball debut for the NU Lady Bulldogs, leading them to a victory over the UST Golden Tigresses. She scored a game-high 21 points in their Season 88 opener on February 15 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
In the UAAP Season 88 women's volleyball opener, Sam Cantada showed her potential as a new member of the NU Lady Bulldogs. They defeated the UST Golden Tigresses 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24 on Sunday, February 15, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.
Cantada, a former UAAP Juniors MVP, tallied 21 points and 14 receptions, securing the win as the team began their three-peat bid. She said, “I’ve regained my confidence. I just need to push myself more and be more consistent,” in a mix of Filipino and English.
Following the departures of Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon, who led the Lady Bulldogs to three championships in the last four seasons, high expectations rested on Cantada. In the fourth set, with the Tigresses leading 23-19, Cantada sparked a 7-1 run featuring three aces and one attack, scoring seven of the Lady Bulldogs' last 10 points.
Head coach Regine Diego praised her: “I know a lot of people might think that what Sam did was just luck, but I’ve seen her do it so many times already, so that’s who she really is. It’s her character.” She added, “She’s a really good fighter, especially in crucial games, so I didn’t doubt her.”
Cantada was not alone; veteran Vange Alinsug contributed 18 points, Aira Panique 15 points, and libero Shaira Jardio had 20 receptions and 14 digs. Cantada noted, “Ate Bel set a really high standard. But if we’re there for each other, we’re not going to have a hard time. We don’t have to depend on just one person, because when each of us performs well, everything becomes easier.”
The debut demonstrated that the NU Lady Bulldogs remain strong contenders for the title.