UST's Josh Ybañez retains men's volleyball MVP despite losing finals

Josh Ybañez of University of Santo Tomas retained his Most Valuable Player (MVP) crown in the UAAP men's volleyball Season 86 but fell short of leading UST to a championship after losing to National University.

Ybañez, a sophomore spiker from General Santos City, amassed 329 points and averaged 23.5 points during the elimination round with impressive statistics including 303 attacks (ranked first), 15 aces (second), and 11 blocks.

Despite being swept for the second straight year in the finals, Ybañez remained grateful for his teammates' efforts and acknowledged National University's superiority.

Jade Disquitado of National University won Rookie of the Year, becoming NU's first recipient since Nico Almendras in 2019, while Owa Retamar secured his second consecutive Best Setter title with 269 positional points.

National University's Bella Belen also earned her second MVP award in the women's division, leading NU to a strong elimination round record with 82.2 statistical points (SPs).