NU’s Leo Ordiales delivers UAAP Finals MVP performance under pressure

Finals MVP Leo Ordiales celebrates after helping NU clinch its sixth straight UAAP men’s volleyball title.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Leo Ordiales nailed the crucial hits to help National University complete a historic “six-peat” in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament.

Ordiales unleashed 24 points, as NU swept top seed Far Eastern University, 26-24, 25-22, 25-22, in Game 2 of the finals on Saturday in front of 11,526 fans at Mall of Asia Arena.

READ: UAAP Finals: NU Bulldogs complete ‘six-peat’ with sweep of Tamaraws

Finals MVP Leo Ordiales was emotional after receiving his trophy. #UAAPSeason88 @inquirersports pic.twitter.com/F0QffxRGdi

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) May 9, 2026

The Alas Pilipinas star emerged as the Finals MVP with an efficient 23-of-36 spiking clip and a block.

Despite making his superb performance look easy, Ordiales said he had to shrug off the pressure.

“Of course, I felt the pressure earlier because there were so many people watching, and it was tough to handle. But thankfully, I was able to overcome it,” said Ordiales.

The league’s Best Opposite Spiker wanted to finish his team’s campaign on a winning note after the challenges they faced in the elimination round.

READ: UAAP: Leo Ordiales, Buddin help NU deny FEU sweep bid in men’s volleyball

Leo Ordiales talks about his performance in Game 2.

Greg Ancheta on scattering NU’s offensive wealth. #UAAPSeason88 @inquirersports pic.twitter.com/ZZPw598Ona

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) May 9, 2026

“My mindset was just to stay focused and composed, and not get rattled. I knew they would rely on me whenever needed, so I told myself not to be nervous because the ball could come to me anytime. I just kept reminding myself to stay calm and composed,” said Ordiales.

Ordiales delivered 22 points in their five-set comeback in Game 1.

The 23-year-old has only played two seasons in the UAAP, but he has no definite plans yet as far as his future is concerned. But if he opts runs it back, Ordiales promises that he’ll be even better next season.

“I’ll definitely carry this experience into next season. Of course, I want to do even better,” said Ordiales. “This still isn’t the best version of myself—I know I still have more to show. There’s an even bigger beast coming out next year.”