College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers kept its title hopes alive with a commanding 25-18, 25-21, 27-25 win over Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights in Game 2 on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Fresh off being named league MVP, Zam Nolasco delivered a performance befitting the honor, leading the Lady Blazers with 19 points and controlling the tempo at the net.
Nolasco’s leadership anchored Benilde throughout, especially in key stretches where momentum threatened to swing.
Despite a late surge from Letran in the third set, the veteran middle blocker rose to the occasion, finishing the match with authority off a well-timed connection.
While Nolasco took charge, rookie Cam Bartolome once again proved her value, contributing 14 points in another composed showing on the big stage. Clydel Catarig also made her presence felt with 11 points.
The Lady Blazers also tightened their defense against Letran’s main weapon, limiting reigning Best Opposite Hitter Judiel Nitura to just nine points after a strong outing in the series opener. Nicen Colendra and Gia Maquilang tried to fill the gap with 11 points apiece, but their efforts fell short. (AC)
