Vange Alinsug now faces a major decision following the NU Lady Bulldogs’ runner-up finish in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Tournament.
After helping steer the Lady Bulldogs back to the Finals despite a transition year, Alinsug remains undecided on whether she will return for one last UAAP campaign or turn professional through the 2026 PVL Draft.
“We’ll see, we’ll see,” Alinsug told reporters after NU’s Finals loss to the La Salle Lady Spikers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Vange Alinsug Proves Mettle Despite Loss
NU’s bid for a third straight championship ended in a two-game Finals sweep as La Salle completed a historic 16-0 title run. Still, Alinsug emerged as one of the Lady Bulldogs’ bright spots throughout the season.
The Cebuana outside hitter delivered 12 points, 7 excellent receptions, and 5 excellent digs in Game 1 before leading NU in scoring in Game 2 with 14 points, 4 excellent digs, and 4 excellent receptions.
She also enjoyed a breakout Season 88 campaign overall, finishing seventh in the league in scoring with 215 points built on 190 attacks, 13 blocks, and 12 aces.
Alongside graduating setter Lams Lamina, Alinsug helped anchor a Lady Bulldogs squad adjusting to the departure of NU’s celebrated “Golden Generation” led by Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, Erin Pangilinan, and Sheena Toring.
Despite the roster overhaul, NU still reached its fifth straight Finals appearance under first-year head coach Regine Diego.
Silver Worth Its Weight in Gold
For Alinsug, the silver finish remains something the team can still take pride in, given the challenges they faced throughout the year.
“Actually, ‘yung sinabi ko sa kanila is hindi ito nakakahiya na hindi kami nanalo. Kasi ‘yun nga, umabot kami sa Finals, which is nakaka-proud na din talaga ‘yun para sa amin. And ayun lang, kailangan din talaga is tapangan pa namin kasi ‘yung mga opponents namin is talaga gusto nilang manalo,” she said.
Whether she stays or leaves for the professional ranks, Alinsug believes NU’s future remains bright behind a young core led by Sam Cantada, Harlyn Serneche, Celine Marsh, Abe Pono, and IC Cepada.
“Actually, sobrang confident ako na kaya din talaga namin at kakayanin nila kasi ngayon pa lang na halos nagkakapaan pa kami, still umabot kami dito sa Finals. And yun lang, kailangan din talaga naming pagtrabahuin pa ulit.”
