UST's JJ Macam attacks the defense of VNS in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, November 2, 2025 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. PVL Media
MANILA -- University of Santo Tomas-Gameville turned back the VNS Griffins in four sets, 25-19, 25-19, 26-28, 25-22, in the Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference on Sunday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
Josh Ybañez redeemed himself after committing a costly attack error that allowed the Griffins to extend the match, as he finished with a game-high 27 points -- all on attacks.
The two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player also registered 12 excellent digs to power the Golden Spikers to their second win against one loss in the tournament.
Meanwhile, JJ Macam stepped up big in the absence of GBoy De Vega, who sat out due to personal reasons. He delivered 20 points built on 17 attacks, two blocks, and an ace.
"Siguro masyado kaming relaxed, tapos hindi namin naisip na papalag talaga 'yung kalaban. Kaya ayun, hindi namin nakuha ng straight sets," Macam admitted after the win.
UST-Gameville appeared headed for a sweep after dominating the first two frames, but VNS refused to fold. The Griffins took advantage of the Golden Spikers' 34 errors, clawing their way back to snatch the extended third set and extend the match.
The Golden Spikers made up for their slew of service errors with their explosive offense, finishing with 74 attack points to 44 for VNS.
"Sana sa next game namin, ma-overcome namin 'yung mga errors. Naging kampante kami kasi up kami ng two sets – nasobrahan kami sa relax," said Macam.
Trevor Valera chipped in 10 points, including three blocks, while Andrei Delicana made a strong impact off the bench, firing 10 markers in the decisive fourth set.
Dux Yambao orchestrated the offense with 34 excellent sets and three points, while Edriel Alabar anchored the floor defense with 24 excellent receptions and 18 digs.
The victory pulled UST-Gameville into a tie for third place with the Spin Doctors and the Alpha Insurance Protectors.
Meanwhile, VNS absorbed its third straight loss, dropping to 0-3 in a tie with PGJC-Navy.
Axel Book led the Griffins with 16 points and 13 receptions, while John Diwa and RK Medino added eight apiece, and Bembem Bautista chipped in seven.
The Griffins will try to finally break through against Savouge on Friday at 2 p.m.