Heavyweights National University and the University of the Philippines headline Day 1 action in the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals Davao City Leg, which kicks off Friday, August 1, at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gym. The NU Lady Bulldogs face Notre Dame of Dadiangas University at 5 p.m., following the showdown between the UP Lady Maroons and host Davao Selection in the tournament opener. The three-day meet is part of the 2025 Kadayawan Sports Festival. NU boasts a loaded lineup led by Evangeline Alinsug, Samantha Chloey Cantada, Denesse Daylisan, Myrtle Escanlar, and Celine Elizabeth Marsh, with added firepower from Nathasza Kaye Bombita, Aishat Bello, and Harlyn Serneche. UP counters with the likes of Joan Marie Monares, Yesha Noceja, Casiey Monique Dongallo, and Irah Anika Jaboneta, along with Bienne Louise Bansil, Niña Ytang, Cassandra Gamboa, and Shianly Zerna, adding muscle at the net. The Davao Selection, eager to defend home turf, brings in local standouts Fancois Elysha Cabingatan, Alshaila Noro, Anglinca Ordinaria, Rika Sasaki, Kyle Jireh Esteves, Samantha Louise Jimenez, and Izabelle Jacob Andal. NDDU Lady Kingfishers fields a strong core of Excel Kaye Lopez, Sophia Aguas, Mihcaella Kristine Peneza, Rhose Angeline Capili, Jea Peñaranda, Karylle Baclaan, Kate Gwyneth Inot, Angelica Depita, Ruzzel Mae Barong, Giselle Velasco, Mariel Ann Francisco, Stifanny Villarosa, and Princess Joy Villacorta. The team with the best win-loss record at the end of the single round-robin will be crowned champion, with match points breaking any ties if needed. Athletic Events and Sports Management Inc. president Dr. Ian Laurel emphasized that the goal is to bring the excitement of the game closer to fans across Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon, while giving provincial teams the chance to compete in front of their families, friends, and communities. Tickets are available via www.smtickets.com until July 31, or at the venue from August 1 to 3, with prices at ₱600 for VIP, ₱400 for courtside, and ₱200 for upper bleachers.
