Junior Tigresses reign supreme

MANILA, Philippines — University of Santo Tomas dug deep before turning back St. John’s Institute-Bacolod, 25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 18-25, 19-17 to rule the 2026 Shakey’s Juniors National Invitationals last night at the Playtime FilOil Arena.

The Junior Tigresses squandered a two-set lead and even found themselves facing a five-point deficit in the deciding frame but recovered and outdueled their rivals in a thrilling finish.

Most Valuable Player Nicole Pelaez unloaded 27 points on 24 kills, two kill blocks and an ace as UST finished the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, and R and B Milk Tea unbeaten in eight games.

UST completed a season sweep after its breakthrough 2026 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup Division 1 crown last May.

Meanwhile, reigning NCAA champion Letran tests Southern Storm Melbourne as the Shakey’s Collegiate National invitationals fires off today at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Letran-SSM tiff is set at 1 p.m.