The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Lady Blazers leaned on a dominant closing run to secure their second straight win in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, defeating the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights, 25-15, 25-15, 20-25, 25-20, on Tuesday, August 12, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.

Benilde spoiled the coaching debut of Finnish mentor Aleksi Lahteenimaki, who replaced Oliver Almadro after leading Letran to back-to-back NCAA Finals appearances.

Zam Nolasco was the difference-maker for CSB, exploding for 21 points on 12 attacks and eight blocks. She delivered three crucial points in the fourth set, including the match-clinching power tip that sealed the victory in one hour and 41 minutes.

“Obvious naman na since nagsunud-sunod ‘yung kanilang errors… siguro lumabas lang din ‘yung tibay ng loob nila lalo na’t dikit ‘yung score,” said Benilde assistant coach Corrine Apostol, citing head coach Jerry Yee’s emphasis on composure during critical moments.

Game flow

The Lady Blazers dominated the first two sets, taking advantage of Letran’s defensive lapses and controlling the pace with double-digit leads. The Lady Knights, led by Gia Maquilang, fought back in the third frame, capitalizing on Benilde’s miscues to extend the match.

Letran carried that energy into the fourth but faltered late as Benilde’s poise and net defense, anchored by Nolasco and setter Chenae Basarte, shut the door. Basarte finished with 24 excellent sets, fueling 52 team attacks.

Supporting cast

Rhea Densing added 13 points for Benilde, including two blocks, while Kai Lleses chipped in eight markers.

For Letran, Maquilang stood out with a triple-double—21 points, 14 digs, and 10 excellent receptions—while Verenicce Colendra contributed nine points.

Benilde (2-0) will seek a third straight win against Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday at 12 p.m. at Paco Arena. Letran (0-1) will look to bounce back versus Far Eastern University on Tuesday, August 19, at 10 a.m.