Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Tag: PVL

  • Kianna Dy celebrates early birthday with family, powers PLDT to winning start in Vigan 

    Kianna Dy celebrates early birthday with family, powers PLDT to winning start in Vigan 

    For Kianna Dy, PLDT’s opening match in the 2026 PVL On Tour became more than just another preseason game.

     

    It turned into an early birthday celebration surrounded by the people who matter most.

     

    With her family making the long journey from Manila to Vigan City and Gilas Pilipinas star Dwight Ramos also in attendance, Dy responded with one of her best performances of the preseason, firing a match-high 17 points to lift the High Speed Hitters past Choco Mucho, 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18, on Saturday at the CHAVIT Coliseum in Ilocos Sur.

     

    The victory gave PLDT a winning start in its title defense in the On Tour tournament, but for Dy, the emotional support from the stands made the afternoon even more memorable.

     

    “I really appreciate them because the travel here is not easy, and it takes seven hours going here, and they’re here to watch my game and celebrate my birthday tomorrow,” said Dy.

     

    Among those who made the trip were her mother Bambi, sisters Kaila, Cheeni, and Nika, along with Ramos, whose family has roots in nearby Narvacan, Ilocos Sur.

     

    The veteran opposite spiker rewarded them with an efficient outing, tallying 16 attack points and one block while providing the steady offensive presence PLDT needed throughout the match.

     

    Savi Davison chipped in 13 points despite playing only three sets, while veteran middle blockers Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron added 12 and 10 points, respectively.

     

    The Flying Titans, however, hardly made life easy for the High Speed Hitters.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Despite missing national team stars Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure, Choco Mucho showed its depth by stealing the second set and pushing the third frame into a tense extended battle before PLDT finally pulled away late to seize control of the match.

     

    The victory also highlighted the High Speed Hitters’ balanced attack, with multiple veterans stepping up whenever momentum threatened to shift in Choco Mucho’s favor.

     

    Still, Dy believes the preseason opener also exposed areas the team must continue refining before the 2026-27 PVL season officially begins.

     

    “It was really an intense game, one is to one talaga. And Choco Mucho mahirap talaga silang kalaban — buti na lang ‘yung mga pumasok talagang nag-perform. Obviously, we need to work on a lot of things for our next games. Pagbalik ng Manila, adjust ulit,” said the 5-foot-11 opposite spiker.

     

    PLDT now shifts its attention to its next PVL On Tour assignment against ZUS Coffee on August 8 in Santiago City, Isabela, hoping to build on a winning start that was made even sweeter by an early birthday celebration for one of its veteran leaders.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala Mubadala DC Open (July 27 – August 2)

    This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala Mubadala DC Open (July 27 – August 2)

    Philippine sports fans have a busy week ahead as major competitions take center stage, featuring a packed PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup schedule, the continuation of the PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala’s appearance at the Mubadala DC Open. Basketball action dominates the local calendar, while volleyball and international tennis provide additional highlights for Filipino supporters.


    PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup

     

    Tuesday, July 28 — Ninoy Aquino Stadium

     

    5:15 PM – Phoenix Fuel Masters vs Blackwater Bossing

    7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Converge FiberXers

     

    Wednesday, July 29 — Ninoy Aquino Stadium

     

    5:15 PM – Terrafirma Dyip vs Macau Giant Pandas

    7:30 PM – San Miguel Beermen vs Titan Ultra

     

    Friday, July 31 — SM Mall of Asia Arena

     

    5:15 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Magnolia Hotshots

    7:30 PM – Meralco Bolts vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

    Saturday, August 1 — SM Mall of Asia Arena

     

    5:15 PM – Converge FiberXers vs NLEX Road Warriors

    7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs San Miguel Beermen

     

    Sunday, August 2 — Smart Araneta Coliseum

     

    5:15 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Meralco Bolts

    7:30 PM – Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs Magnolia Hotshots

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    PVL On Tour

     

    Saturday, August 1 — Polomolok, South Cotabato

     

    4:00 PM – Nxled Chameleons vs Galeries Tower Highrisers

    6:30 PM – Akari Chargers vs Choco Mucho Flying Titans

     

    Mubadala DC Open — Women’s Singles

     

    Round of 32 — Tuesday, July 28

     

    11:00 PM (PHT)
    Alex Eala vs Qinwen Zheng

     

    With several high-profile matchups lined up, the week offers plenty of storylines across different sports. The PBA continues its heated Governor’s Cup battles as teams fight for positioning, while the PVL On Tour brings volleyball action closer to fans outside Metro Manila. Meanwhile, Alex Eala will look to make another strong international impression as she faces a tough challenge in the Mubadala DC Open.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • UAAP standout Detdet Pepito relishes PVL debut despite Capital1’s loss to Nxled

    UAAP standout Detdet Pepito relishes PVL debut despite Capital1’s loss to Nxled

    Capital1 Solar Spikers rookie Detdet Pepito may not have celebrated her professional debut with a victory, but the highly touted libero walked away from her first Premier Volleyball League (PVL) match with valuable lessons and even greater motivation.

     

    The Solar Spikers opened their 2026 PVL On Tour campaign on a disappointing note after suffering a straight-set defeat to the Nxled Chameleons, 25-17, 25-23, 25-18. Despite showing flashes of competitiveness—particularly in the second set—Capital1 struggled to match Nxled’s consistency and execution as the Chameleons completed a convincing sweep.

     

    For Pepito, however, the match represented the realization of a long-awaited dream.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Get the latest sports updates faster. Join the official Sports PH News Discord community today! https://discord.gg/defTe7KeT
     

    After establishing herself as one of the most decorated collegiate players in recent memory, the two-time University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Most Valuable Player officially made the leap to the professional ranks. Although the 23-year-old admitted that nerves and physical discomfort affected her performance, she remained encouraged by how she handled the moment.

     

    “I think it wasn’t bad. As a rookie, there were definitely nerves and excitement, but I think I handled it pretty well. I just need to figure out how to deal with the cramps I have been getting every game. We will try to find a solution,” Pepito said during the postmatch press conference.

     

    The transition from collegiate volleyball to the PVL often presents a significant challenge for young players, with the faster pace, stronger competition, and higher expectations demanding quick adjustments. Yet Pepito believes the transition has been made considerably easier by the welcoming environment within the Capital1 camp.

    Rather than feeling intimidated by the jump to the professional level, the former collegiate standout said the team’s veteran players and coaching staff have helped her settle in comfortably.

     

    “I don’t think much has changed. I can still help push my teammates, and they also push me to be better. As a rookie, it’s actually exciting because I’m learning so much from the veterans. Everyone made it so easy to fit in. They were all easy to get along with, and they never made us feel like rookies. In fact, they treated us so well that it almost felt like I had been with the team for a long time. I’m just really thankful to the veterans for making us feel so welcome from day one,” she added.

     

    Pepito arrived in the PVL carrying lofty expectations after a stellar collegiate career that established her as one of the country’s premier liberos. While her professional debut ended in defeat, the young defensive specialist believes the experience will only accelerate her growth as she adjusts to the demands of the professional game.

     

    Beyond the result, Pepito was also overwhelmed by the reception she received from the fans, particularly the Ilocano crowd that packed the venue. Known primarily for her defensive brilliance rather than scoring, the rookie admitted she never expected to hear her name cheered so loudly during her first PVL appearance.

     

    “I was actually surprised that so many people were cheering for me. I never expected to be recognized like that as a libero. It feels great, and I hope it inspires future players to see that liberos can make a big impact and perform at a high level,” Pepito said.

     

    Her comments underscored the growing appreciation for defensive specialists in Philippine volleyball, where liberos have increasingly become fan favorites because of their hustle, consistency, and ability to anchor a team’s floor defense.

     

    Although Capital1 left its conference opener empty-handed, the Solar Spikers remain focused on bouncing back as they continue building chemistry with a roster featuring several newcomers. Pepito, for her part, is determined to keep learning from every match while overcoming the physical challenges that surfaced in her debut.

     

    The Solar Spikers will look to notch their first victory of the conference when they face perennial contenders Creamline Cool Smashers on Saturday, August 8, at the City of Santiago, with Pepito hoping to build on the positives from her professional debut and help steer Capital1 toward its first win of the campaign.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Myla Pablo sees Nxled’s chemistry growing as Gel Cayuna settles into setter role 

    Myla Pablo sees Nxled’s chemistry growing as Gel Cayuna settles into setter role 

    Nxled’s newest playmaker may have arrived with an impressive résumé, but for Myla Pablo, the real breakthrough is happening beyond the stat sheet.

     

    After just two matches together, the veteran outside hitter believes Gel Cayuna is beginning to unlock the chemistry that could elevate the Chameleons into one of the PVL’s more dangerous teams.

     

    That progress was evident during Nxled’s convincing straight-set victory over Capital1 in the 2026 PVL On Tour, where Cayuna efficiently distributed the offense with 17 excellent sets while Pablo finished as the team’s leading scorer with 17 points.

     

    For Pablo, the performance wasn’t simply about numbers. It was proof that the team’s growing familiarity is starting to translate into smoother execution on the floor.

     

    “Well, Gel Cayuna is one of the best setters talaga sa PVL,” Pablo told reporters.

     

    “Nung una talaga medyo nahirapan talaga lahat kasi ‘yung communication ng bawa’t isa, pero ngayon naman, nakukuha niya ‘yung mga gusto i-set ng mga spikers din talaga.”

     

    Cayuna arrived at Nxled during the offseason after Cignal took a leave of absence from the league, bringing with her five Best Setter awards and years of experience directing elite offenses.

     

    But joining a new team also meant learning a different group of hitters, each with unique timing, tendencies, and preferred sets.

     

    Pablo revealed that beyond their work in training, she has constantly reminded Cayuna to stay patient and trust the process instead of trying to force everything into place immediately.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    “Sabi ko sa kanya, patience lang talaga at huwag siyang mataranta at pangunahan ang lahat ng ginagawa niya,” she added.

    The early signs have been encouraging, as Nxled continues to build cohesion while integrating new pieces into its lineup ahead of the regular season.

     

    Pablo also praised the PVL On Tour’s “all-to-play” format, saying it has accelerated the team’s development by allowing every player meaningful minutes on the court.

     

    Rather than relying heavily on a small rotation, the preseason tournament has given the Chameleons an opportunity to evaluate their depth while helping everyone become comfortable within the team’s system.

     

    “Actually, una pa lang alam na namin ‘yung all-to-play sa PVL On Tour. Masaya kami na lahat makakalaro kasi siyempre minsan lang din naman mangyari ito,” Pablo said.

     

    “Kaya sabi namin sa mga kasama namin na pag pinasok sa loob ng court, kailangan ibigay ‘yung best natin at makinig sa coaches kung ano ang sinasabi sa loob ng court.”

     

    With its first victory now in the books and its chemistry steadily improving, Nxled hopes to continue building momentum when it returns to action against Galeries Tower on Aug. 1 in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Jaja Maraguinot reveals she nearly quit volleyball before joining Capital1

    Jaja Maraguinot reveals she nearly quit volleyball before joining Capital1

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers made headlines during the Premier Volleyball League offseason after assembling one of the league’s most aggressive roster revamps, highlighted by the acquisitions of former Cignal HD Spikers stars Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos to bolster the team’s attacking options.


    The Solar Spikers also addressed their playmaking department by signing veteran setter Jaja Santiago, adding stability, leadership, and championship experience to a squad looking to make a leap in the upcoming season.


    Amid the blockbuster signings, however, another addition quietly strengthened Capital1’s depth. Former Nxled Chameleons setter Jaja Maraguinot officially joined the Solar Spikers after parting ways with Nxled in January, marking a fresh chapter in a career that she admitted was on the verge of ending.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Speaking to The Game, Maraguinot revealed that she had already begun preparing for life outside volleyball after being released by her former club, believing her professional career had come to an end.


    “Honestly, I was looking for work at that time. I really thought volleyball was already over for me because after that, there was nothing. Then suddenly, this opportunity came, and I just decided to take it,” Maraguinot shared.


    Her unexpected return came through Capital1 head coach Jorge Souza de Brito, who reached out to check on her condition and encouraged her to gradually work her way back into playing shape.

    “Coach Jorge messaged me and asked if I was training with any team or just working out. I told him honestly that I decided to rest first. He just told me to start working out, and after a few weeks, he invited me to train with them. He also gave me time to get back into shape and didn’t force me right away,” she said.


    For Maraguinot, the move represents more than simply joining a new team—it also reunites her with several familiar faces. The veteran playmaker will once again suit up alongside former Ateneo teammates Vanie Gandler, Pauline Gaston, and Roma Mae Doromal, a dynamic that could help accelerate her transition into Capital1’s system.


    Despite the familiarity, Maraguinot understands that earning playing time will not come easily. Capital1 has significantly upgraded its roster, creating healthy competition across multiple positions as the franchise seeks to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the PVL.


    Rather than focusing on minutes, the 27-year-old hopes to contribute through her experience and leadership.


    “Maybe it’s about becoming a more mature player inside the court and in volleyball—how I can help lead the team,” she said.


    After spending several months away from the sport, Maraguinot admitted the break gave her a new perspective on volleyball, a game that has been part of her life since childhood.


    “Volleyball is more than just a sport. I’ve been playing since elementary school, through college, and into the pros. Those four months away made me realize I want to redeem myself and become even more invested in volleyball,” she said.


    Now presented with an opportunity she never expected to receive, Maraguinot enters the new PVL season with renewed motivation and gratitude. While Capital1’s offseason acquisitions have generated excitement, the veteran setter hopes her comeback story will prove just as impactful as the Solar Spikers look to turn their revamped roster into on-court success.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Erika Deloria lauded as proof players outside the UAAP and NCAA can make it to the PVL

    Erika Deloria lauded as proof players outside the UAAP and NCAA can make it to the PVL

    Galeries Tower Highrisers outside hitter Erika Deloria has proven that there is more than one path to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), and her journey is now serving as an inspiration for the next generation of players from Enderun Colleges.


    Unlike many of the league’s stars who emerged from traditional collegiate powerhouses in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Deloria carved her own path through Enderun’s volleyball program before earning a spot in the professional ranks.


    The versatile outside hitter was selected by the Chery Tiggo Crossovers with the 20th overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft. Although Chery Tiggo later ceased operations, Deloria remained in the league after being signed by the Galeries Tower Highrisers, where she has continued to showcase her potential at the professional level.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    For Enderun head coach Dong Dela Cruz, Deloria’s rise is proof that talent and hard work can open doors regardless of the school a player comes from. He hopes her success will motivate his current players to believe that they, too, can reach the PVL despite competing outside the country’s most prominent collegiate leagues.


    “That’s what I keep telling our players—that even if you are not from the UAAP or NCAA, it’s still possible to get drafted into the PVL. You can still build a volleyball career after college. I already saw her potential because Erika is a very talented player. She’s naturally quiet, so during her final year I made her team captain to help her find her voice and develop as a leader. I was really preparing her to get drafted into the PVL,” Dela Cruz said.


    According to Dela Cruz, Deloria’s growth extended well beyond her abilities on the volleyball court. While she developed into one of Enderun’s most dependable players, she also excelled academically, balancing the demands of collegiate athletics with outstanding classroom performance.


    The veteran coach said her achievements as both a student and an athlete make her an ideal role model for aspiring volleyball players.

    “I’m very proud of what she’s achieved. Erika isn’t just an excellent volleyball player—she also graduated magna cum laude. I know she will do well wherever she goes. She still has room to improve, but the most important thing is that she is making the most of the playing time she’s getting and showing everyone her talent,” he added.


    As Deloria continues to establish herself in the PVL, Enderun’s current squad is seeking to make its own mark in collegiate volleyball.


    The Lady Titans are currently competing in the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals, where they have been given the opportunity to test themselves against some of the country’s top collegiate programs as well as international clubs from Vietnam and Australia.


    Although Enderun dropped its opening three matches of the tournament, the Lady Titans responded with an impressive straight-set victory over Ho Chi Minh City, 25-16, 29-27, 25-16, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, July 22.


    The victory provided a welcome confidence boost for the squad as it continues to gain valuable experience against stronger competition.


    For Dela Cruz, competing in the National Invitationals is about more than wins and losses. He believes the tournament offers his players an opportunity to accelerate their development while demonstrating that Enderun can compete with established volleyball programs.


    “Our goal is to gain experience by playing against some of the best NCAA and UAAP teams. This is a different level of competition. We will also be facing international teams from Vietnam and Australia, so it’s a great opportunity for us. This is the first time we will be competing at this level, and we also want to show everyone that Enderun Colleges has a good volleyball program,” Dela Cruz concluded.


    With Deloria already making her presence felt in the professional ranks, Enderun hopes her story will inspire more Lady Titans to chase their PVL dreams and prove that success is possible regardless of where their collegiate journey begins.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Galeries Tower sees more than talent in Lams Lamina 

    Galeries Tower sees more than talent in Lams Lamina 

    For Galeries Tower head coach Aying Esteban, Lams Lamina’s biggest impact didn’t begin when she stepped onto the court in a Premier Volleyball League uniform.

    It started in practice.

     

    Long before making her long-awaited preseason debut, the former National University setter had already caught Esteban’s attention—not because of flashy plays, but because of her relentless desire to improve.

     

    Whether it was asking questions during training, seeking advice from coaches, or picking the brains of her veteran teammates, Lamina made it clear she was determined to learn every detail of the Highrisers’ system.

     

    “Kahit sa training, tanong siya nang tanong sa mga teammates niya, sa amin, kung ano ang nangyayari,” said Esteban.

     

    “‘Yun ang maganda sa kanya, hindi siya nagsasarili. Kumbaga, lagi siyang ano na matuto doon sa team namin.”

     

    That eagerness translated into a composed first outing as Lamina finally suited up for Galeries Tower on Saturday night, helping the Highrisers grind out a 25-17, 24-26, 25-19, 26-24 victory over Farm Fresh at the Batangas City Sports Center.

     

    Backing up team captain Julia Coronel, Lamina recorded seven excellent sets while efficiently steering the second unit and ensuring the team’s offense never lost its rhythm whenever the starters took a breather.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The rookie also showed maturity beyond her experience during the closing moments of the fourth set.

     

    She first delivered the setup that allowed Lycha Ebon to score the go-ahead point for a 25-24 edge before calmly tossing a one-handed set to Roselle Baliton, who buried the match-winning quick attack.

     

    Despite the encouraging debut, Esteban stressed that Lamina remains a work in progress as she continues adjusting to Galeries Tower’s offensive system.

     

    “Meron pa ring mga sa system namin na kailangan niya i-adapt pa, pero siyempre sa process pa rin ‘yun,” said Esteban.

     

    The Highrisers have undergone significant changes since Esteban took over midway through the PVL All-Filipino Conference, and the coach believes players like Lamina are helping shape a new culture centered on growth and accountability.

     

    While wins are welcome during the preseason, Esteban remains more encouraged by the team’s mindset as they continue laying the foundation for the upcoming season.

     

    “Ang laki, ang laki na ng changes. Ang laking pagbabago sa mentality, pagdating sa training. Natutuwa ako kasi hindi sila nagsasawa sa kung anong ginagawa namin. Grateful ako sa kanila sa ganoong ginagawa nila sa team namin.”

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • AC Miner embraces new role as ZUS Coffee builds for the future 

    AC Miner embraces new role as ZUS Coffee builds for the future 

    AC Miner’s return to ZUS Coffee has been about much more than recovering from injury. It has also marked the beginning of another transformation in her volleyball journey.

     

    After missing the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference because of a shin injury, Miner has returned to the Thunderbelles with a different assignment, taking over as an opposite spiker after spending most of her career as a middle blocker.

     

    Instead of viewing the adjustment as a setback, the former Ateneo standout has welcomed the challenge with the same mindset that has defined much of her career.

     

    “I’m accepting it well,” Miner said when asked about the position switch.

     

    The role is hardly unfamiliar territory for the former Rookie of the Conference. During her final season with Ateneo under Brazilian coach Sergio Veloso in UAAP Season 87, Miner was also asked to alternate between middle blocker and opposite hitter, giving her experience that is now proving valuable in the professional ranks.

     

    For ZUS Coffee head coach Jerry Yee, the move was driven by both necessity and long-term planning.

     

    With Thea Gagate, Riza Nogales, Zam Nolasco, and fourth overall rookie Nicole Ong providing depth in the middle, keeping everyone in their natural position would leave limited opportunities for several players.

     

    “Ano naman eh, as long as willing ‘yung bata. Kasi ‘yung mga middles natin, hindi natin ma-maximize if tatlo sila or apat; may hindi maglalaro. So talagang merong isa na magsi-switch talaga,” said Yee.

     

    “Nagta-transition na rin naman ‘yung mga opposite natin, so paunti-unti, nagpapakabata tayo kumbaga,” he added.

     

    The shift also allows the Thunderbelles to gradually prepare for the future while easing the workload of veteran opposite spiker Jovelyn Gonzaga, whose experience continues to play a vital role in the team’s development.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Miner admitted that the biggest adjustment has come away from the net, particularly in improving her back-row defense after spending years focusing on blocking as a middle.

     

    “So, ginagawa ko lang ‘yung trabaho ko sa depensa since ‘yun naman siguro ‘yung kulang ko as a middle — ‘yung defense sa back row. So, ‘yun pa rin ‘yung kailangan kong trabahuhin. Overall, well accepted naman ‘yung new role,” said the former Rookie of the Conference.

     

    Fortunately for Miner, she has someone she trusts to guide her through the transition.

     

    “I’m accepting it well, since ‘yung kapalitan ko, si Ate Jov (Gonzaga), isa sa mga veterans,” she said.

     

    “Sobrang mahalaga kasi ni Ate Jov. Mas matagal na siyang naglalaro kaysa sa akin. With the help of the other veterans din, nagkakaroon ako ng kumpiyansa kasi hine-help nila ako para mas makatulong sa team at ma-boost din ‘yung confidence ko,” she added.

     

    Yee believes the experiment could eventually give ZUS Coffee another legitimate attacking option while making the team’s frontline bigger and more flexible against the league’s top opponents.

     

    The early returns have already been encouraging during the Thunderbelles’ unbeaten start in the 2026 PVL On Tour Showdown, particularly with Miner’s improved presence at the net.

     

    “At least na-address natin. ‘Yung blocking, talagang malaki na improvement. Siyempre, maraming butas, like ‘yung floor defense natin; kailangan maalaga tayo. ‘Yung third ball natin kailangan maayos din,” said Yee.

     

    Even so, the longtime mentor stressed that the conversion remains a work in progress rather than a finished product.

     

    “May pros and cons pero ganun talaga, we have to work.”

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Farm Fresh, ZUS Coffee join forces to represent Philippines in Formosa Volleyball Invitational

    Farm Fresh, ZUS Coffee join forces to represent Philippines in Formosa Volleyball Invitational

    Two Premier Volleyball League (PVL) teams will join forces on the international stage as the Farm Fresh Foxies and ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles combine their talents to represent the Philippines at the 2026 Formosa Women’s Volleyball Invitational Tournament in Chinese Taipei.

     

    The tournament, scheduled from July 30 to August 2, will provide the Philippine squad with a valuable opportunity to measure itself against a diverse field featuring club teams and national selections from Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and Hong Kong.

     

    Playing under the Strong Group Pilipinas banner, the collaboration between the sister PVL franchises allows both teams to assemble a deeper and more competitive roster while giving their players much-needed international exposure ahead of the upcoming PVL season.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Leading the Farm Fresh contingent is reigning PVL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Trisha Tubu, who headlines a talented group that includes Roselyn Doria-Aquino, Maicah Larroza, Ces Molina, Louie Romero, and Jonna Perdido.

     

    The Foxies’ roster will be complemented by key players from ZUS Coffee, including AC Miner, Chinnie Arroyo, Clo Mondonedo, Riza Nogales, Alyssa Eroa, and Zamantha Nolasco, creating a balanced lineup that combines youth, experience, and different playing styles.

    Farm Fresh head coach Koji Tsuzurabara will take charge of the combined squad, while ZUS Coffee head coach Jerry Yee will serve as one of his assistants alongside veteran mentors Kungfu Reyes and Shaq Delos Santos.

     

    For Tsuzurabara, the tournament represents an ideal opportunity for the players to challenge themselves against international competition and continue improving before returning to domestic action.

     

    “This tournament gives us exactly the challenge we are looking for before the PVL season. We will be facing quality teams from different countries with different playing styles, and that’s an opportunity for both Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee to grow. The level of competition will push our players to improve, build chemistry, and gain the experience that will benefit them once the PVL season begins,” Tsuzurabara said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond the competition itself, the tournament is also expected to strengthen the connection between the two PVL organizations as they work together toward a common goal of representing the country.

     

    Yee expressed his excitement over the opportunity for the players and coaching staff to wear the Strong Group colors, emphasizing the importance of gaining international experience while developing stronger relationships between the two teams.

     

    “It’s an honor for our players and coaching staff to wear the Strong Group colors and represent the Philippines. We hope to make our country proud with the way we compete. At the same time, bringing together players from Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee is a great opportunity to build relationships, learn from one another, and create a strong team culture that will benefit both clubs when we return to the PVL,” Yee added.

     

    With a talented roster and an experienced coaching staff, Strong Group Pilipinas hopes to use the Formosa Women’s Volleyball Invitational as a platform to showcase the depth of Philippine volleyball and prepare its players for the challenges ahead in the PVL season.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • PVL and Alas stars bring volleyball flair to Star Magic All-Star Games 

    PVL and Alas stars bring volleyball flair to Star Magic All-Star Games 

    The Star Magic All-Star Games are adding even more firepower to this year’s festivities—and this time, some of the country’s top volleyball stars are stepping onto the entertainment stage.

     

    Professional standouts and collegiate stars will headline the women’s volleyball exhibition on August 23 at the Mall of Asia Arena, bringing together athletes and celebrities in one of the marquee events of the annual showcase.

     

    Leading the cast is multi-time PVL champion Risa Sato, who will reinforce the Lady Warriors after establishing herself as one of the league’s most accomplished middle blockers.

     

    Currently suiting up for the Akari Chargers, Sato brings an impressive résumé that includes 11 Premier Volleyball League championships and years of experience competing at the highest level of Philippine volleyball.

     

    Joining the opposing Lady Spikers is Alas Pilipinas Women’s standout Niña Ytang, who continues to cement her reputation as one of the country’s premier middle blockers.

     

    The former collegiate star enters the event as a four-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker and remains a key member of the national team program.

     

    The Lady Spikers will also receive a boost from veteran setter Jules Tolentino, who helped steer the now-defunct Petro Gazz franchise to the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference championship.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Familiar faces will also return to the annual spectacle.

     

    San Beda standout Erin Navarro is back for another appearance after participating in last year’s edition, while Adamson University’s Bella Sapienza is set to make her Star Magic All-Star Games debut.

     

    The Lady Spikers’ lineup is rounded out by Analain Salvador, Lella Ford, Fyang Smith, Vivoree, Magui Ford, Janah Zaplan, Ai dela Cruz, Isabel Laohoo, and Sophie Reyes.

     

    On the other side, Sato and the Lady Warriors will be joined by Reign Parani, Rans Rifol, Gillian Vicencio, Jas Dudley, Rain Celmar, Kolette Madelo, and Leona Andalio.

     

    With PVL champions, national team standouts, collegiate stars, and entertainment personalities sharing the same court, this year’s women’s volleyball match is shaping up to be one of the biggest attractions of the 2026 Star Magic All-Star Games.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.