Historic MVP triumphs for Nitura and Hernandez in V-League
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Benilde stuns Arellano with epic comeback for bronze finish
The College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers capped their V-League campaign with a statement win, pulling off a dramatic reverse sweep over the Arellano University Lady Chiefs, 21-25, 16-25, 25-22, 25-15, 15-4, to secure the bronze medal in the 2025 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge on Monday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
After a semifinal loss to the FEU Lady Tamaraws ended their title hopes, the Lady Blazers showed remarkable grit and composure, clawing back from a two-set deficit to reclaim a spot on the podium — improving from their fourth-place finish last year.
Leading the comeback was Zam Nolasco, who dominated at the net with 18 points built on 12 attacks and six blocks, while Fiona Inocentes powered through with 15 markers (11 attacks, three blocks, one ace).
CSB LADY BLAZERS
“I’m very happy because they showed resiliency… it’s tough to face a situation like this, but somehow, we overcame it for this bronze medal,” said Benilde head coach Jerry Yee, proud of his team’s determination.
Fueled by momentum from the third and fourth sets, Benilde exploded to an early 8–1 lead in the fifth, behind Camila Bartolome’s timely hits and a pair of Arellano errors. From there, the Lady Blazers never looked back, stretching the advantage to 13–4 after a Rhea Densing kill and another Nolasco block.
Then came the finishing touch — Arianna Pua delivered back-to-back attacks to seal the victory in one hour and 53 minutes.
Coach Yee lauded the V-League for providing the platform: “This tournament and podium finish are a huge confidence booster for the team.”
Densing chipped in 12 points, Bartolome added nine, while Shahanna Lleses anchored the floor defense with 13 excellent receptions and nine digs.
Despite the loss, Arellano made a strong impression in its first-ever V-League stint, with Laika Tudlasan scoring a game-high 26 points, while Samantha Tiratira, Marianne Padillon, Fhaye Mangubat, and Heart Villaflores added six apiece.
