NU Bulldogs outlast UST Tigresses in SSL Preseason Cup Game 1 thriller

National University (NU) defeated University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Game 1 of the Shakey's Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup finals, 15-25, 25-23, 25-17, 13-25, 15-12.

This victory gives NU a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series, bringing them closer to a potential four-peat in the preseason tournament.

NU, also the reigning UAAP champions, staged a comeback by scoring the final five points to secure the win after a grueling two-hour, 39-minute match.

Rookie Sam Cantada led NU with 18 points, including 16 kills, in her return from a national team stint.

Chams Maaya's net defense, contributing eight of NU's 13 kill blocks, was crucial, with her final block sealing the victory.