The title race is expected to heat up in the second round of the UAAP Season 86 men's volleyball tournament.
As the UAAP Season 86 men’s volleyball tournament progresses into the second round, fans are eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama and the emergence of standout performances.
With the first round setting the stage for intense competition, the second round promises to deliver even more excitement.
Here are five compelling storylines to keep a keen eye on:
1. Can Josh Ybanez continue to carry UST to a Final Four finish?
Josh Ybanez has been nothing short of sensational for the University of Santo Tomas.
After the first round, Ybanez leads the scoring department with 151 points. The reigning MVP is also among the top servers (0.29 aces per set) and receivers with 115 excellent receptions on 63.89% efficiency.
His remarkable leadership and exceptional skills have propelled UST to impressive victories, leading to a 4-3 record.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Ybanez to see if he can sustain his stellar performance and lead UST to a coveted Final Four finish and even possibly a Finals appearance once more.
2. Will FEU’s efficiency in attacks continue in the second round?
Far Eastern University has displayed remarkable efficiency in their attacking plays during the first round of the tournament.
Despite lower spike numbers, Martin Bugaoan and Dryx Saavedra are the top two spikers after the first round, posting 55.97% and 49.19% spiking success rate, respectively.
With that, the Tamaraws are also the top spiking team with 355 spikes on 44.21% efficiency.
Their ability to convert opportunities into points has been a key factor in their success so far. As they enter the second round, the question remains: can FEU maintain their high level of attacking prowess and continue to dominate on the court?
3. Is NU’s Joshua Retamar headed for an MVP Season?
Joshua Retamar has been special so far this season for National University.
The Bulldogs’ star setter is first among the Best Servers department with 16 aces, as well as first in the Best Setters category with 6.00 excellent sets per set.
The Bulldogs ended the first round with a six-game winning streak, with their only loss coming on opening day against UST. That's why for many, NU is still the favorite to claim its fourth championship in a row.
With his stellar performance in the first round, many are also speculating whether Retamar is on track for an MVP-worthy season. The second round will provide further insight into his potential to claim the coveted title.
4. Can Ateneo’s Lance De Castro continue his steady presence on defense?
Lance De Castro has been a defensive stalwart for the Ateneo de Manila University.
His ability to read the game and make crucial defensive plays has been instrumental in Ateneo’s success.
De Castro is currently first in digging with 77 excellent digs and receiving with 91 excellent receptions on 66.67% efficiency.
As a team, Ateneo is within the top three of the Best Setters, Best Diggers, and Best Receivers categories, proving that they are an elite team when they find their form.
As the competition heats up in the second round, all eyes will be on De Castro to see if he can maintain his steady presence on defense and help propel Ateneo to a possible Final Four run.
5. Which team will trend up in the second round?
Team statistical categories after the first round show a balanced playing field with FEU leading the Best Spikers category, NU being the Best Blockers and Best Servers, while UST claims the Best Receivers department.
La Salle and Adamson, meanwhile, are the Best Setters and Best Diggers, respectively.
With the start of the second round, there is a sense of anticipation regarding which team will rise to the occasion and elevate their performance.
Whether it's a team that struggled in the first round looking to stage a comeback or a strong team aiming to solidify their position at the top, the second round presents an opportunity for teams to make a statement.
With every match poised to deliver exhilarating moments and unexpected twists, fans can expect nothing short of a spectacle as the quest for supremacy in men’s volleyball continues to unfold.