Pasay: Nigerian Olayemi Raheem delivered 30 points in leading University of the Philippines to a 25-21, 23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 15-11 victory over University of the East at the start of the UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Saturday. Sophomore Tommy Castrodes chipped in 15 points on 14 attacks and one ace, alongside nine excellent digs and nine excellent receptions, for the Fighting Maroons.

According to Philippines News Agency, UP coach Carlo Cabatingan emphasized the need to work on consistency and composure, particularly in managing emotions during games. 'In terms of skills, this is the UAAP, so I think everyone is skillful and physically gifted, so I think the real game here is the mind,' Cabatingan said post-match.

Milven Francisco contributed 14 points with a combination of attacks, blocks, and aces, while Angelo Lipata added 13 points and nine excellent receptions. Louise Aballe orchestrated the offense with 22 excellent sets and four points. UP is set to face Ateneo de Manila University on Feb. 22 at the same venue.

Raquim Aceron led the Red Warriors with an impressive 26 points, complemented by 10 excellent receptions and eight digs. Jan Libot and Xjhann Camaymayan contributed 15 and 11 points, respectively, while Isaiah Roca and Gerald Perit added nine and seven points. UE's next match is against Season 87 runner-up Far Eastern University on Feb. 18 at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.