University of Santo Tomas bounced back from a tough loss with a commanding 25-18, 25-18, 25-15 sweep of reigning NCAA champion Arellano University in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday evening at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center.

The Golden Spikers, who previously fell short in a reverse sweep bid against NU, capitalized on a two-week break to reset. JJ Macam delivered 14 points, five receptions, and four digs, while Gboy de Vega chipped in 12 points on 10 attacks to lift UST to a 4-1 record — solo second in the eight-team tournament organized by Sports Vision.

Golden Spikers regain form

“Ang una talaga namin prinepare ay yung mental toughness ng mga bata,” said UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape. “After nung loss namin sa NU, prinepare naman namin yung skills nila para i-ready nila sa susunod na game… nag-bunga sa panalo, tapos may kasunod pa kami na crucial game against FEU this Saturday.”

UST seized control in the second set behind a decisive 5-1 run highlighted by four straight points from Trevor Valera, building a 20-14 lead that set up a two-set advantage. In the third frame, the Golden Spikers raced to a 20-7 cushion, leaving Arellano with no way back.

A crosscourt strike by De Vega and a quick finish from Ryuichi Yamanaka completed the one-hour, 14-minute rout.

Arellano remains winless

Valera added nine points, while Sherwin Umandal and Vryvin Catinsag scored six apiece. Team captain Dux Yambao dished out 21 excellent sets and contributed two points in the win.

The Chiefs, still winless at 0-6, were led by Jiwen Sinuto with 10 points. They will face Ateneo de Manila University in their final elimination game on Sunday, September 7.

UST, meanwhile, turns its attention to a pivotal clash against the FEU Tamaraws (3-1) this Saturday, September 6.