Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Dorothy Del Rosario

  • SIBOL aims for top podium finish as MLBB hits Asian Games 

    SIBOL aims for top podium finish as MLBB hits Asian Games 

    The Philippines is once again setting its sights on the top podium. With Mobile Legends: Bang Bang making a splash at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan this September.


    The national esports team, SIBOL, is preparing for a gold-medal run that fans hope will continue the country’s longstanding dominance in the game.

     

    The SIBOL MLBB Combine, which wrapped up this week, showcased the depth of local talent, bringing together elite players from Team Liquid, Aurora Hunters, and Team Falcons. 

     

    The final roster is expected next week, as confirmed by SIBOL General Manager Jab Escutin, who did not shy away from setting lofty expectations.

     

    “We’ve been defending our gold medal in the SEA Games for the longest time, and with the support that we’re getting from our partners and the government and all the other support that we’re getting from the community,” Escutin said.

     

    The Philippines’ record in Mobile Legends speaks for itself. With six of the last seven M-Series World Championships under its belt and gold in every Southeast Asian Games where MLBB was contested, SIBOL enters Nagoya carrying both legacy and pressure. 

     

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    Filipino players are also making waves internationally, competing in top leagues worldwide, solidifying the nation’s reputation as a talent powerhouse.

     

    “Boss Lon (Marcelo) said Avengers Assemble and it really is. I mean look at our line up of players and coaches. It’s guns blazing for SIBOL this year,” SIBOL’s General Manager said.

     

    At the helm is first-time international tournament head coach Allec Monsseur “SN4P” Alvarado, supported by a cadre of veteran coaches. Together, they have been carefully selecting the squad from the Combine, ensuring a balance of proven stars and emerging talents capable of contending for gold.

     

    Abroad-based mentors Denver “Yeb” Miranda and Michael “Arcadia” Bocado join forces with veteran coach Francis ‘Duckey’ Glindro, bringing international insight to complement local expertise. 

     

    “I think we want to maximize all of the advantages, no matter how little it is, how big it is, we want to maximize all of it. That’s why we have the support and knowledge of our support coaches to assist our head coach and our analysts,” Escutin added.

     

    SIBOL’s campaign officially begins on September 23, running through October 2. With the perfect blend of star power, coaching experience, and national pride, the Philippines is aiming to make history once more.

     

     

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  • Super-rookie Sam Cantada drops 32-point triple double as NU beats UP in five-set thriller

    Super-rookie Sam Cantada drops 32-point triple double as NU beats UP in five-set thriller

    The UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament witnessed a breakout performance on Wednesday, as National University’s 19-year-old sensation, Sam Cantada, announced herself in emphatic fashion. 


    Facing the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in the second round opener, Cantada delivered a 32-point triple-double, reminding the league why she’s considered a “super rookie.”

     

    Beyond her scoring heroics, Cantada contributed 18 receptions and 13 digs, added three blocks, and recorded two aces, carrying the Lady Bulldogs through a grueling five-set battle that ended 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8. The victory also served as redemption for NU, which had fallen to UP in Round 1.

     

    The performance is now etched in Lady Bulldogs history, marking the highest single-game scoring output since Alyssa Solomon posted 34 points in Game 2 of the Season 85 Finals against the DLSU Lady Spikers. 

     

    Even veteran coach Ramil De Jesus of the Lady Spikers couldn’t help but acknowledge Cantada’s impact, praising the rookie’s maturity and poise under pressure.

     

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    Despite her rising star, Cantada remains grounded, emphasizing that personal milestones matter little without a championship. 

     

    “Siyempre hindi pa naman po tapos, so hindi po ako magsi-stop kasi wala pa naman po eh. Hindi pa kami champion eh. So kailangan pa namin mag-aim pa po and pagtrabahuhan pa po,” she said.

     

    Her performance is even more impressive considering she recovered from an injury sustained during NU’s first encounter with UP, which forced her to sit out a match. 

     

    “Siyempre po, galing din kami sa talo, which is sa La Salle po, so pinanghugutan lang po namin yung game namin sa La Salle. So inall-out lang talaga namin yun,” Cantada added.

     

    Looking ahead, NU hopes to build momentum as they prepare to face the FEU Lady Tamaraws on March 22, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

     

    Cantada believes her team is still in strong contention for the title. “Sa nakikita ko po, kaya namin siya. Kaya namin makuha ulit ‘yung championship,” she said.

     

    With her combination of scoring, defense, and leadership, Cantada isn’t just a rookie making noise, she’s a force that could define NU’s championship push this season.

     

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  • Raphael Obermair boost sparks new hope as Philippine men’s national football team faces Tajikistan

    Raphael Obermair boost sparks new hope as Philippine men’s national football team faces Tajikistan

    With everything on the line, the Philippine men’s national football team isn’t just preparing for a match—it’s preparing for a defining moment.


    The release of the 23-man squad this week signaled more than routine selection. It hinted at intent. 

     

    At the center of that intent is the long-awaited inclusion of Raphael Obermair, who could finally make his mark for the national side as they gear up for a winner-take-all clash against Tajikistan on March 31 in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

     

    For years, Obermair has hovered around the edges of the program, called up but unseen. Now, the timing feels different as the 29-year-old winger, currently playing for SC Paderborn 07 in the second division 2. Bundesliga, arrives not as a prospect, but as a potential difference-maker.

     

    His journey has been anything but straightforward. Despite being eligible through his Filipino roots, club commitments and timing denied him earlier appearances. But his consistent play in Germany—where he has logged over 100 appearances for Paderborn has kept him firmly on the radar.

     

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    The renewed push to integrate Obermair became evident when head coach Carles Cuadrat personally traveled to Germany to assess him, a move that underscored just how crucial the winger could be in a match of this magnitude.

     

    The Philippines and Tajikistan enter the final matchday tied at 13 points apiece in Group A. Only the winner advances. Their last meeting ended in a tense 2-2 draw, a result that now looms as both a warning and a promise of another tightly contested battle.

     

    But Obermair won’t be alone in carrying the hopes of the nation.

     

    The squad also welcomes Gerrit Holtmann, a proven game-changer who famously delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner in his debut during past Asian Cup qualifiers. His ability to produce decisive moments under pressure remains one of the team’s biggest weapons.

     

    Alongside him are key holdovers like Bjorn Kristensen, Sandro Reyes, and Kevin Ray Mendoza—players who have grown into the system and now form the team’s competitive backbone.

     

    There’s also quiet confidence within the squad, built on recent performances. The team that is formerly known as Azkals have shown they can rise in high-pressure situations, including past wins that kept their continental hopes alive deep into qualifying campaigns. 

     

    Their historic appearance in the Asian Cup in 2019 remains a reminder of what’s possible when momentum and belief align.

     

    For Obermair, however, this isn’t just about tactics or qualification scenarios—it’s about finally stepping onto the international stage he’s long been linked to. A chance delayed, but not denied.

     

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  • Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    For the Converge FiberXers, the process has come with unexpected complications.


    Instead of simply refining rotations and building chemistry, Converge is being forced to adapt without key pieces, most notably Juan Gomez de Liano, who remains sidelined with a knee injury.

     

    The absence has added another layer of difficulty for a team still trying to establish rhythm in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The injury, sustained during their previous outing against the Terrafirma Dyip and has left Gomez de Liano in a holding pattern. After undergoing an MRI, the 26-year-old guard is hoping for positive news—and a quick return.

     

    “I hurt my knee last game, natamaan, knee to knee. That’s pretty much the same. Kinda a bit swollen, so hopefully it heals by itself, and hopefully mabilis,” the lefty guard said.

     

    But beyond the physical setback, it’s the inability to contribute that weighs heavier. As Converge slipped to a 1-2 record, Gomez de Liano could only watch from the sidelines, an unfamiliar position for one of the team’s primary creators.

     

    “I really wanted to be out there with the guys and just kinda help them, pero injuries are out of my control,” he said.

     

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    His absence is particularly felt in matchups that demand backcourt firepower, especially against players like CJ Cansino, a familiar rival dating back to their UAAP days.

     

    Still, inside the Converge camp, there is a sense of patience rather than panic. With the conference still young—and with reinforcements on the way in Calvin Abueva—the team is choosing to view early losses as part of a longer process.

     

    “It’s just a matter of time to build trust with one another and gain chemistry. I’m glad these two losses happened early in the conference,” he said. “We just have to continue to build up and work together … we just have to be patient,” the 26-year-old added.

     

    For Gomez de Liano, the focus now shifts entirely to recovery. A demanding offseason that included duties with Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers may have contributed to the wear and tear, making rest just as critical as rehab.

     

    “I’m gonna just attack rehab, just allow it to heal, I’ll just catch up on some rest. Kasi tuluy-tuloy rin ‘yung mga ganap sa akin like with the training, Gilas, and I feel like overfatigued lang. Hopefully, makabalik na ako,” he added.

     

    Time, however, is a luxury Converge can’t fully afford. A looming matchup against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25 presents another early measuring stick, one the FiberXers hope to face at full strength.

     

    Whether Gomez de Liano suits up or not, his presence on or off the floor remains central to a team still trying to find its footing.

     

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  • Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The spotlight at the Ynares Center on Wednesday became a night of statements and emerging storylines in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.


    For the Meralco Bolts, the evening doubled as both a strong season debut and a historic moment. Behind a commanding 109-88 victory over the Converge FiberXers, the Bolts not only showcased their depth but also reached a significant franchise milestone.

     

    Import Marvin Jones wasted no time making his presence felt, erupting for 29 points in an impressive first outing. His performance set the tone, but it was far from a one-man show. CJ Cansino delivered near-flawless shooting, finishing 8-of-9 from the field, including a perfect clip from four-point range—to tally 23 points and eight assists. 

     

    Meanwhile, veteran Chris Newsome added 19 points, anchoring the decisive fourth-quarter push that shut the door on Converge.

     

    The win carried added weight. Based on league statistician Fidel Mangonon III, it marked Meralco’s 300th victory as a franchise, placing the MVP Group-backed squad among the league’s most accomplished active teams.

     

    On the other side, Converge continues to search for rhythm early in the conference. The absence of Juan Gomez de Liano due to a knee injury loomed large, especially for a team still awaiting the debut of Calvin Abueva.

     

    Alec Stockton led the FiberXers with 18 points, while Justin Arana posted a double-double effort of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Import Kylor Kelley and Justine Baltazar also delivered inside presence, but the team fell to 1-2, still searching for cohesion.

     

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    If Meralco celebrated history, Terrafirma Dyip continued crafting a promising present.

     

    Riding the momentum of a breakout performance in their previous game, Mubashar Ali once again anchored Terrafirma’s charge, finishing with a dominant 22-point, 23-rebound outing to power a 99-88 win over the Blackwater Bossing. His consistent production is quickly turning into one of the early tournament’s most compelling narratives.

     

    Support came in waves. Paolo Hernandez contributed 20 points in a Player of the Game performance, while Jerrick Ahanmisi added 18, highlighted by two four-point shots that helped keep Blackwater at bay.

     

    Blackwater, meanwhile, leaned heavily on Sedrick Barefield, who poured in 25 points. However, the limited mobility of import Daniel Ochefu, playing through a hyperextended knee restricted their interior presence, contributing to their second straight loss.

     

    Looking ahead, the Meralco Bolts will have over a week to regroup before facing the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on March 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The Converge FiberXers, meanwhile, face a tough test against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25, returning to the same Antipolo venue.

     

    The Blackwater Bossing aim to bounce back on Sunday against the Magnolia Hotshots, with the possible debut of import Robert Upshaw depending on Ochefu’s condition. Meanwhile, Terrafirma Dyip will try to sustain their surge when they take on the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, coached by Charles Tiu, on March 25 in Antipolo.

     

     

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  • PNVF seeks unity and reform amid backlash over Alas women program

    PNVF seeks unity and reform amid backlash over Alas women program

    Amid growing scrutiny and mounting concerns, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation is shifting its tone, calling for unity and collective action as it works to address pressing issues surrounding the national volleyball program.


    Following a wave of criticism that placed athlete welfare and program structure under the microscope, the federation reached out to players, stakeholders, and fans, urging them to be part of the solution rather than remain on the sidelines. 

     

    At the center of the controversy is the proposed draft system for Alas Pilipinas Women, which reportedly includes provisions requiring invited players to commit exclusively to the national team pool.

     

    The policy sparked concern across the volleyball community, raising questions about player autonomy and long-term welfare. 

     

    The issue was further amplified by reports involving alleged unpaid bonuses to former head coach Jorge de Brito, adding another layer of tension to an already sensitive situation.

     

    In a statement released late Tuesday, PNVF president Tony Boy Liao acknowledged the backlash and emphasized the federation’s willingness to listen and evolve.

     

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    “The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) acknowledges the sentiments and concerns shared by our volleyball community, including those surrounding the Alas Draft and athlete welfare. As the sport’s governing body, we remain committed to building a sustainable, inclusive, and athlete-centered path forward,” the federation said.

     

    Rather than dismiss criticism, the PNVF framed the moment as an opportunity to rebuild trust and strengthen its foundation. 

     

    It underscored the importance of creating a system that not only produces competitive teams but also protects and empowers the athletes within it.

     

    “We invite continued dialogue and collaboration as we work together to ensure that our athletes are not only competitive on the world stage, but are also supported, heard, and valued every step of the way,” the statement read.

     

    With tensions still fresh, the federation’s next steps will be closely watched. For now, its message is clear, a meaningful progress in Philippine volleyball will require not just policy changes, but open communication and shared responsibility across the entire community.

     

     

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  • Arvin Tolentino keeps door open for Gilas 

    Arvin Tolentino keeps door open for Gilas 

    Given another shot at wearing the Philippine colors, Arvin Tolentino says he’s ready and available to do it.


    The 6‑foot‑5 gunner, now a key contributor for the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League has his club among the six squads advancing to the postseason that starts Wednesday at Studio City. 

     

    He said that if the call from the national team comes again, Tolentino makes it clear he’s eager to answer it.

     

    “It’s an honor. It’s a dream of mine to play for the national team,” said the 30‑year‑old forward, who already knows the system under national coach Tim Cone from his first three Philippine Basketball Association seasons with Barangay Ginebra.

     

    Tolentino’s national team resume is already decorated. He was part of the Gilas Pilipinas Men’s national basketball team squad that broke the country’s one‑year gold medal drought at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games.

     

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    He also helped the Philippines reclaim men’s basketball gold at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, competing under coaches Chot Reyes and Cone.

     

    Although he’s watching the current Gilas core compete in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, which feature a competitive Group A that includes Australia, New Zealand and Guam, Tolentino said he’s fully behind his compatriots and believes they’ll give their best for the campaign.

     

    As he refers to teammates such as  Kevin Quiambao and Carl Tamayo, also excelling in Korea, he said “Whoever is playing for sure naman they’re give their 100 percent. And full support ako sa kanila.”

     

    Off the court, Tolentino has embraced life in South Korea while making adjustments on it. Since signing a multi‑year deal with the SK Knights after leaving the PBA, he’s been working to adapt to the KBL’s fast pace and team systems, even as his role varies from game to game.

     

    Tolentino now also has a chance to make history, aiming to become the first Filipino to win an EASL championship since Rhenz Abando captured the title with Anyang KGC during the 2023 Champions Week. But rather than feel the pressure, he stresses the importance of staying focused on his game.

     

    As his club pursues postseason success, Tolentino’s gaze remains on both domestic triumphs and renewed national pride, keeping the door open for another chapter in a career already marked by growth, resilience, and unflagging love for the game.

     

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  • NU Lady Bulldogs eye redemption against UP as UAAP Season 88 Round 2 kicks off

    NU Lady Bulldogs eye redemption against UP as UAAP Season 88 Round 2 kicks off

    The UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament shifts into high gear as the second round kicks off, putting the spotlight on consistency, redemption, and the relentless hunt for Final Four spots.


    Defending champion National University Lady Bulldogs enter the round eager to make amends after stumbling in the closing stretch of Round 1. 

     

    Their four-set loss to the DLSU Lady Spikers last Sunday dropped a dent in their momentum, leaving NU with a 5-2 record—already matching last season’s total elimination losses. 

     

    The Lady Bulldogs now sit second in the standings, narrowly ahead of the Lady Falcons, Lady Tamaraws, and Golden Tigresses, all holding 4-3, in a tight race for the No. 2 seed.

     

    NU will look for revenge as they face the UP Fighting Maroons at 3 p.m., a rematch of their first-round clash where the Maroons triumphed in a five-set match, 25-16, 25-16, 22-25, 29-31, 16-18. 

     

    Rookie star Sam Cantada, who returned from a right shin injury after colliding with libero IC Cepada and she’s determined to lead the charge and help the Lady Bulldogs reclaim their winning rhythm.

     

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    For the Fighting Maroons, Round 2 begins with the challenge of regaining momentum after a promising 3-1 start was derailed by three consecutive losses to FEU, UST, and Adamson, compounded by the season-ending injury of key player Casiey Dongallo. 

     

    Niña Ytang now shoulders the responsibility to lift the squad, teaming up with Jelai Gajero to fill the void left by Dongallo.

     

    In the opening game of Round 2, FEU Lady Tamaraws take on the winless UE Red Warriors. FEU is eager to rebound after finishing Round 1 with a sweep loss to UST, and the team could be without Gerzel Petallo, who suffered a right shoulder injury during a collision with teammate Marga Encarnacion. 

     

    Head coach Tina Salak is relying on Jazz Ellarina, Faida Bakanke, Aly Devosora, Lovely Lopez, and setter Tin Ubaldo to guide the Lady Tamaraws back to form.

     

    Meanwhile, UE is determined to snap their Round 1 winless streak. Head coach Jumbo Dimaculangan looks to her top scorer Khy Cepada, captain Van Bangayan, and Bea Zamudio to keep the Red Warriors competitive in a daunting second round.

     

    With the second round underway, every match carries weight, and each team is fighting not only for wins but for validation. As injuries test depth, streaks are challenged, and rivalries intensify, one thing is clear, the path to the UAAP Season 88 Final Four will demand grit and unwavering focus from every squad.

     

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  • Kacey dela Rosa shines as Gilas Pilipinas Women close FIBA World Cup Qualifiers with victory

    Kacey dela Rosa shines as Gilas Pilipinas Women close FIBA World Cup Qualifiers with victory

    Despite falling short of their goal to qualify for the FIBA Women’s World Cup, Gilas Pilipinas Women ended their campaign on a high note, with Kacey dela Rosa emerging as the driving force behind their final triumph.

     

    The reigning UAAP Women’s Basketball MVP from Ateneo showcased her dominance on the international stage, finishing the tournament with 25 points, 18 rebounds, and five blocks. 


    She said facing powerhouse squads helped elevate her game and offered valuable lessons for her growth.

     

    The forward led Gilas Women’s comeback after trailing 40-33 at halftime, scoring 12 points in the fourth quarter to secure a 74-59 victory over Colombia in Lyon-Villeurbanne, closing their FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament campaign on a positive note.


    Dela Rosa got off to a modest start against France with 11 points and added eight points apiece in their matches against Germany and Nigeria. Her highest-scoring game came against South Korea, where she poured in 26 points despite the team’s loss.

     

    “All of the tournaments I’ve played, I take the lesson that I think I can apply and be better and better every tournament,” Dela Rosa said.

     

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    Her consistent scoring helped her finish as the Philippines’ top scorer, averaging 15.6 points per game during the qualifiers. 

     

    Dela Rosa’s leadership and presence on the court became a key factor in Gilas Women’s performance, particularly in high-pressure moments.

     

    Looking ahead, Dela Rosa is focused on refining her game while mentoring younger teammates. 

    Her experience in intense international competition has shaped her into not just a scorer but a reliable anchor for the team in upcoming tournaments such as the William Jones Cup in July and the 20th Asian Games in Japan from 19 September to 4 October.

     

    Despite a challenging run against world-class opponents, the Philippines finished fifth in the standings with a 4–1 record, highlighting how competitive Gilas Women can be on the global stage.

     

    Beyond her statistics, Dela Rosa’s impact in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament caught international attention. 

     

    Her physicality and ability to secure rebounds against taller opponents, and leadership on transition plays became defining strengths for the team. These qualities underscore her evolution into a cornerstone player who will be central to Gilas Women’s future campaigns.

     

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  • Grethcel Soltones pushes through flu, sustains high intensity play to lead Akari to a gritty victory

    Grethcel Soltones pushes through flu, sustains high intensity play to lead Akari to a gritty victory

    Even at less than full strength, Grethcel Soltones found a way to make her presence felt where it mattered most—on the court and in the huddle.


    Akari’s veteran spiker wasn’t just playing through discomfort, she was setting the tone. Despite quietly dealing with the flu since their previous game against Creamline, Soltones delivered a composed and steady performance that helped lift the Akari Chargers to a tense four-set victory over the Galeries Tower Highrisers in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

     

    The Chargers’ 25-23, 25-23, 14-25, 26-24 triumph stretched their winning run to five games, but the story behind it ran deeper than the scoreboard.

     

    “Since Creamline game, ‘di na po ako okay. Pero ‘yun nga, hindi ako nagsasabi kasi ayoko rin po silang mag-isip, lalo na si coach [Tina Salak],” said the 30-year-old spiker.

     

    Soltones revealed she had been unable to train fully leading into the match, only managing to return to practice a day prior while still struggling to breathe and speak comfortably.

     

    “Nung Sunday, World Bex, kailangan po naming pumunta doon. Doon na po nag-start na magka-trangkaso ako. Hindi ako nakapag-training, kahapon lang ako nakapag-training ulit, kaya hirap ako huminga. Si Coach Tina, nag-a-adjust din sa akin kasi hindi ako makahinga nang maayos. Sa pananalita ko rin, para akong may mic,” she added.

     

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    Rather than dominate statistically, Soltones anchored the floor defense with eight digs and contributed eight points, while guiding her teammates through high-pressure moments. 

     

    Her leadership became even more vital when Galeries Tower surged back in the third set and threatened to force a decider in the fourth.

     

    Akari head coach Tina Salak recognized that impact beyond the numbers.

     

    “Commend ko talaga si Gretch. Under the weather ‘to since yesterday,” the veteran coach said.

     

    With Soltones rallying the team, the Chargers held their composure late in the fourth set, closing out the match and improving to a 5-3 record which is another step closer to the qualifying round.

     

    For Akari, the win extended their streak. For Soltones, it underscored something more enduring that leadership isn’t always about peak performance, it’s about showing up, even when your body says otherwise.

     

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