Manila: University of the East pulled off a stunning 25-16, 22-25, 25-18, 25-22 victory over Ateneo de Manila University in the UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball tournament at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion on Saturday. The Red Warriors banked on Roy Piojo, Raquim Aceron, and Xjhann Camaymayan to end their campaign with a 4-10 win-loss record. Ateneo remained in fourth place at 7-6.

According to Philippines News Agency, three days ago, UE eliminated De La Salle University from the Final Four with a 25-21, 28-26, 26-24 victory. Ateneo benefited from that UE win, allowing it to join Far Eastern University, defending National University, and UST in the semifinals. "Like last game, what I said is that our mindset is to train very hard still and win as many games as possible. Since this is our last game, I just told them to give it their all, because there is nothing to lose to end the season memorable and with a win," UE assistant coach Jumbo Dimaculangan said in the post-match interview.

Piojo delivered 23 points on 21 attacks and two aces, along with five excellent digs. Aceron chipped in 23 points, 18 excellent receptions, and six digs followed by Camaymayan with 14 points on seven blocks, six attacks, and one ace. Jian Salarzon finished with 20 points and 19 receptions while Amil Pacinio contributed 14 points for the Blue Eagles, who remained in fourth place at 7-6.

In the women's division, Ateneo showed no mercy for UE, 25-23, 25-19, 29-27, as the latter ended a second straight season without a win. The Lady Warriors were also winless from Seasons 75 to 77. The last time they won was in their final game of Season 86 against the University of the Philippines Lady Maroons on April 27, 2024.

Donna De Leon scored 14 points on 11 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, while Jihan Chuatico and Ana Hermosura added 12 and 11 points, respectively for the Blue Eagles, who also snapped a five-game slump. Khy Cepada led UE with 18 points on 15 attacks, two aces, and one block, along with 13 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs, while Van Bangayan added 12 points on 11 attacks and one block with eight excellent digs. Defending champion NU and La Salle have qualified to the women's semifinals.