UAAP: Josh Ybañez, 3-time MVP, returning to UST next year

UST Golden Spikers’ star Josh Ybañez receives his UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball MVP trophy. –UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–As he received his third UAAP men’s volleyball MVP, University of Santo Tomas star Josh Ybañez announced his commitment to play out his final year with the Golden Spikers.

Ybañez officially received his trophy as the men’s best player of Season 88 on Saturday, ahead of Game 2 of the Finals between National University and Far Eastern University.

READ: UAAP: UST star Josh Ybañez clinches third men’s MVP crown

“See you next year,” Ybañez told the crowd at Mall of Asia Arena during the awarding ceremony.

The Alas Pilipinas standout said that he wanted to give back to UST by staying for his fifth year.

“Honestly, I think it’s the love I have for my school. It’s my way of giving back to my community, that’s what I was thinking. I am so grateful that I’m playing for UST, so why not continue my last chance to fight for the team and play for UST,” he said in an interview

After missing out on individual awards in Season 87 due to injuries, Ybañez bounced back in dominant fashion, posting a league-best 90.192 statistical points (SP) to become the first UST men’s volleyball player to win three MVP awards.

UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament individual awardees. –UAAP PHOTO

“Actually, I didn’t really take it as something that would pressure me. Instead, this MVP is motivation for me and a confidence boost to do better and lead the team on what more we can achieve next year,” Ybañez said.

“As I’ve said in previous interviews, this wasn’t really my goal. I welcome it, but it’s not what I’m chasing. This is just a bonus given by God. Thank you, God. I’m grateful for this, but everyone knows my real goal here in the UAAP.”

The 23-year-old senior remained UST’s cornerstone on both ends, finishing fourth in spiking with a 45.19-percent success rate, second in aces with 0.35 per set, and second in reception with a 65.68-percent efficiency rate.

He also ended the season as the league’s second-leading scorer with 278 points built on 244 attacks, 16 blocks, and 18 aces.

Ybañez also earned his third Best Outside Spiker award in four years after finishing with 329 ranking points (RP), while National University’s Michaelo Buddin earned the other Best Outside Spiker award with 269 RP.

The Golden Spikers also received their bronze medals, closing out their Season 88 campaign on the podium.