DE La Salle University seeks to defend its men's championship title, but momentum and confidence alone won't be enough as Game 1 of the 2024 V-League Collegiate Finals kicks off on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
The Green Spikers will square off against the formidable Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws, the top team from the elimination round, who swept the National University Bulldogs in the semifinals of the preseason tournament organized by Sports Vision and presented by Grab.
Despite the challenge ahead, La Salle enters the 6 p.m. showdown with renewed hope after surviving a grueling semifinal series. The Taft-based squad secured a thrilling 25-23, 26-24, 23-25, 23-25, 15-11 victory against the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers in a sudden-death match to claim their spot in the best-of-three finals.
However, La Salle coach Jose Roque emphasized that the Green Spikers need to elevate their game to overcome an experienced and well-rounded Tamaraws lineup.
"We need to work hard. The team is young, so they need to mature. To be mature is based on their experience," said Roque, who will lean on Rui Ventura's offensive firepower and Chris Hernandez's defensive prowess.
"At the same time, the urge to defend not just the title but the school's name De La Salle University," added Roque.
On the other hand, the Tamaraws will rely on star players Dryx Saavedra and captain Jelord Talisayan as they chase the elusive title.
Meanwhile, in the women's division, the UST Golden Tigresses will attempt to extend their winning streak as they face FEU in Game 1 of their finals at 3 p.m.
With Jonna Perdido back in the lineup, the España-based squad also boasts UAAP Season 86 Rookie of the Year Ange Poyos and Regine Jurado. They'll go head-to-head with Tin Ubaldo's crew, featuring standouts Chenie Tagaod and Alyza Devosora.
Earlier in the day, the Golden Spikers and National University Bulldogs will rekindle their rivalry in the men's bronze medal match at 10 a.m., while the women's third-place duel between the College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers and University of the East Lady Warriors will follow at 1 p.m.