National University fended off University of Santo Tomas en route to a narrow 25-23, 25-22, 21-25, 29-31, 15-11 escape win in Game 1 of their finals series in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday, May 10, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

After taking a commanding 2-0 set lead, the Bulldogs encountered some resistance from the Golden Spikers before showing championship poise and turning them back in the decider.

NU Bulldogs eye three-peat title against the UST Golden Spikers in UAAP men's volleyball. (UAAP Media)

With the win, NU extended its winning streak to 33 games and moved a win away from its dream three-peat title.

The Bulldogs’ bid for a third straight championship title was put on hold after the men’s volleyball tournament’s three-year absence from the calendar since Season 82.

NU rookie Buds Buddin delivered the team-high 26 points on 24 attacks, one block and a service ace, while Nico Almendras had a 20-point outing in the extended affair.

“Sobrang draining nu’ng game. Buti talaga binigay nila ‘yong best every set. Sana magtuluy tuloy pa ‘yong game namin and sa Sunday makuha na namin,” said NU men’s team head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

On the other hand, Josh Ybañez led the way for the Golden Spikers with 28 points on 28 kills.

UST, which hasn’t clinched the title in the men’s play since Season 73, needs to win three games in the finals to dethrone NU.

However, the Bulldogs look to sweep the entire season when they face the Golden Spikers in Game 2 on Sunday, May 14 at 2 p.m., at the same venue.

Meanwhile, NU Lady Bulldogs seek to extend their best-of-three finals series and defend the crown against De La Salle Lady Spikers at 4 p.m. in the women’s play.