Sam Cantada Shines in UAAP Debut, Shows NU Lady Bulldogs Remain in Good Hands After Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon Departures

Sam Cantada made a stunning UAAP debut, leading the NU Lady Bulldogs to a 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 26-24 win over the UST Golden Tigresses in the Season 88 opener at the Mall of Asia Arena on Feb. 15.

“SUMMARY This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors”

Rappler

Rappler reports that Cantada finished with a game-high 21 points and 14 receptions.

Rappler

She closed out the fourth set with a decisive 7-1 run that included three aces, a performance that stamped her immediate impact on NU's lineup.

Cantada’s scoring and all-around contributions were complemented by strong showings from her teammates, underlining NU’s depth even after offseason departures.

Rappler notes Vange Alinsug scored 18 points, Aira Panique added 15, and libero Shaira Jardio had 20 receptions and 14 digs.

Rappler

Those figures show multiple players stepped up alongside the rookie to secure the opener for a team still targeting a three-peat despite losing key players.

Rappler emphasizes Cantada’s temperament as much as her statistics.

“SUMMARY This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors”

Rappler

Rappler says coach Regine Diego praised Cantada’s character and clutch play.

The piece describes the rookie’s confident, game-closing aces as a sign that NU’s title defense may be in good hands even after losing Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.

That framing presents Cantada not just as a points scorer but as a player the coaching staff trusts in high-pressure moments.

Rappler’s report offers a clear, optimistic snapshot of the opener and Cantada’s breakout, but the absence of additional sources limits cross-checking and broader perspective.

I cannot verify whether other outlets would highlight different elements, such as tactical adjustments, opponent analysis, or longer-term roster implications, because no other articles were provided.

Rappler

Readers should note this limitation and seek multiple reports for a fuller, comparative view.