UE Lady Warriors eye UAAP Season 87 despite key player losses

Despite losing several key players, University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors are focusing on their remaining team members as they prepare for the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament opening on Sunday.

Khy Cepada and Van Bangayan led UE in a comeback attempt against UP but fell short with a score of 18-25, 24-26, 26-24, 25-13, 13-15 at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.

Cepada expressed optimism and resilience despite the departure of top scorers like Casiey Dongallo and setter Kizzie Madriaga, pouring in 24 points with her longtime teammate Bangayan contributing 17.

Bangayan, who played beach volleyball last year, showed no signs of rust and backstopped Cepada, promising to do better in future games as she adjusts to indoor play.

Coach Allan Mendoza encouraged his team to focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on setbacks, noting that the Lady Warriors will face former players who transferred to UP.