UST Junior Golden Tigresses Mary Nicole Pelaez and Chasliey Naomi Pepito helped the National Capital Region (NCR) Metro Stars successfully retain their title in the 66th Palarong Pambansa on Saturday, May 30, in Agusan del Sur.
Representing NCR alongside players from National University-Nazareth School (NUNS), Pelaez and Pepito played key roles as the squad defeated the Negros Island Region (NIR) Visayan Vipers, 22-25, 25-14, 25-19, 25-18, in the championship match.
After surrendering the opening set, NCR regained momentum with a dominant showing in the second frame before dispatching the Visayan Vipers in the next two sets to secure back-to-back Palarong Pambansa crowns.
Pelaez and Pepito were among the reinforcements tapped by NUNS for the national competition, strengthening a roster that represented NCR in the country’s premier multi-sport event for student-athletes.
Pelaez was named the tournament’s MVP, while incoming Golden Tigress Diza Marie Berayo earned Finals MVP honors.
