UNIVERSITY of the East (UE) Lady Warriors overcame a late fightback by College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Lady Blazers to claim a five-set victory, 25-21, 25-16, 22-25, 14-25, 15-8, in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Lady Warriors appeared headed for a quick finish after taking the opening two sets, only for the Lady Blazers to force a decider by winning the next two frames.
UE regained control in the fifth set, turning an 8-4 advantage into a commanding 12-5 lead. Janessa Buhay then delivered consecutive kills as the Lady Warriors pulled away and secured the victory.
“Very happy kami na nabigyan kami ng chance. Grateful kami sa V-League management na nabigyan kami ng chance kasi kailangan talaga namin ‘tong mga preseason, especially now na ang damı po naming rookies,” UE coach Jumbo Dimaculangan said.
Buhay, a former Adamson University standout, made an immediate impact in her first V-League appearance for UE, finishing with 23 points from 22 attacks and one ace. She also recorded 11 digs and nine excellent receptions.
Bea Zamudio added 18 points for the Lady Warriors, while rookie setter Cheska Peñol contributed eight excellent sets and two points in her collegiate debut.
The victory marked a successful return to the V-League for UE, which last competed in the tournament in 2024.
The Lady Blazers, meanwhile, received 17 points apiece from Grace Borromeo and Fiona Inocentes. Mhonniecka Soliven posted 19 points and 11 excellent receptions in an all-around effort. (Adrian Co)
