Obed Mukaba gave full justice to the “blocker” in middle blocker during the National University-Archipelago Builders’ perfect week at the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
With the Bulldogs usually drawing much of their offense from the wings, Mukaba made a huge impact at the net, piling up blocks and timely points to anchor unbeaten NU’s three-game winning streak from October 20 to 25 on his way to Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week honors.
Mukaba opened the week with 17 points, including eight blocks, in the reigning UAAP champion’s four-set win over VNS Always Bright Laticrete, 25-14, 25-13, 20-25, 25-12, on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Congolese middle blocker followed up with eight points, highlighted by seven blocks, in a sweep of the Alpha Insurance Protectors, 25-20, 25-20, 25-23, on Thursday.
He then added seven points in just two sets in their four-set win over the Far Eastern University-DN Steel, 25-15, 25-21, 24-26, 25-21, on Sunday as the Bulldogs completed a perfect week.
“I’m very happy to play here because I think it’s my third season,” Mukaba said.
“I’m very happy to help the team win with my blocking as a middle blocker, so I hope we will continue this.”
Mukaba beat out NU teammate Buds Buddin, Criss Cross’ Jude Garcia and Amil Pacinio, ClearSkiiin’s JM Ronquillo and Klint Mateo, FEU’s Dryx Saavedra, and Savouge’s Mark Calado for the weekly honor deliberated by print and online reporters covering the league.
His strong week also came as Spikers’ Turf celebrates its 10th anniversary, with Mukaba making the most of the platform while helping NU test itself against a field that includes seasoned club teams.
“Of course, it’s a good experience because we are a collegiate team and facing those kinds of players, because they are also a good team, and it will help us improve,” he said.
“I think this competition is a good preparation for us for the UAAP.”
That preparation carries added meaning for Mukaba, with the next UAAP season set to be his last as a student-athlete.
“The next season will be my last season, so I’m trying to enjoy this season because as a student-athlete this is my last,” Mukaba said.
“I don’t know if next year I will stay here to play here. I’m trying to enjoy. I’m happy here.”
NU will have over a week to prepare for its huge test against defending champions Criss Cross on Wednesday, November 4, followed by a clash with the AFP Cavaliers on Saturday, November 7.
