UAAP MVP Shaina Nitura says Adamson has tools to make finals

Adamson ace Shaina Nitura is officially named UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball MVP at Mall of Asia Arena before Game 2 of the UAAP Finals between the La Salle Lady Spikers and NU Lady Bulldogs.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — As if there’s any doubt about Adamson being a force to reckon with in the coming seasons, Shaina Nitura and Fhei Sagaysay winning the MVP and Best Setter, respectively, was a testament to the Lady Falcons’ bright future.

“I’m grateful that God gave this to me. Of course, I’m happy and thankful, but this isn’t where my career—or our journey—stops. We’re still focused on pushing for the Finals,” said Nitura in Filipino.

READ: UAAP: Adamson star Shaina Nitura set to be named Season 88 MVP

“Actually, this just proves that we’re capable of reaching the Finals because we have Fhei and a lot of other players who can continue leading the team in the coming seasons,” she added.

Nitura, who had a record-breaking rookie season last year, became Adamson’s first-ever UAAP women’s volleyball MVP with 98.511 statistical points (SP), while also leading  Adamson to its first semifinal appearance since Season 85.

The Lady Falcons actually clinched the third seed, but got swept by a more experienced University of Santo Tomas side in the stepladder semis.

The 21-year-old Best Outside Hitter, who also received special awards worth Php 100,000, expressed gratitude to her school for her and Sagaysay’s individual honors.

READ: UAAP: Shaina Nitura leads but team effort books Adamson’ Final Four return

UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball Best Setter Fhei Sagaysay of the Adamson Lady Falcons during the awarding ceremony.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“I’m very honored to give back the trust, positivity, and support that Adamson gave me, us, and the whole team. They gave us more than just financial support, a dorm, or education—they taught us to play with heart and to fight for Adamson and the Adamson community. It’s bigger than whatever we have now,” said Nitura.

“I think a big factor is the relationship and environment we create for the players, especially within the team. We know how hard it is to grow in a negative environment. Sooner or later, we’ll be seniors, so one thing we really focus on is making sure the younger players feel valued. It’s not just the coaching staff’s job—we, as players, captains, and leaders, also want to provide a positive but still competitive environment,” she added.

The Alas Pilipinas star tallied 284 points on 248 attacks, 24 blocks, and 12 aces, while ranking third in spiking efficiency at 38.15% and seventh in service aces with an average of 0.26 per set.

On the defensive end, Nitura finished fourth in receptions with a 44.48% efficiency and eighth in digs with 2.11 excellent digs per set. and also topped her position with 303 ranking points.