CJ Segui powered VNS-Laticrete to a thrilling four-set victory against Alpha Insurance, 25-21, 25-23, 19-25, 25-23, in the battle of the last two winless teams in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The Griffins failed to close out the game in straight sets despite strong performances in the first two, but Segui came alive in the fourth to power his squad to their first victory of the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
The 20-year-old outside hitter from Mapua High School exploded for 28 points — his best performance in the Spikers’ Turf — on 26 attacks and two kill blocks. He also had nine excellent receptions and five excellent digs.
“Si CJ (Segui) kasi parang ito ‘yung graduation recital niya sa amin eh. It’s his last (conference) for VNS kasi mag-college na siya. So sabi namin sa kanya pakita niya mo best niya para more opportunities will come for you,” said VNS head coach Ralph Ocampo.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
With the score tied at 22-all in the fourth set, Segui unleashed a searing cross-court attack to give the Griffins a one-point edge. He followed it up with another spike on the next play, but the Protectors challenged for a ball out, which was deemed successful.
However, VNS countered with a block touch challenge, which was also upheld, putting the Griffins at match point with a 24-22 lead.
Vincent Nadera saved a point for Alpha Insurance by blocking Segui’s third consecutive attempt, but a crucial net violation by Edward Camposano sealed the win for the Griffins after two hours of play.
“Actually, napagod ‘yung ibang players eh. Pero maganda lang napakita nila ‘yung fighting spirit nila na tapusin ‘yung game,” said Ocampo.
With RK Medino sidelined due to back spasms, KC Culabat and Rash Nursiddik stepped up to provide ample support for Segui.
Culabat finished with 11 points and 14 excellent receptions, while Nursiddik also tallied 11 points while filling in for middle blocker Jayvee Sumagaysay.
Jan Mangulabnan dished out 20 excellent sets and added three points, while JM Espanso tallied 13 excellent digs in the win.
VNS improved to a 1-3 record, tying PGJC-Navy for fourth place in the tournament also supported by ArenaPlus and Mikasa.
The Griffins aim to sustain their momentum against Savouge on Wednesday, 1:00 PM at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
On the other hand, the Protectors dropped their fourth consecutive loss to open their Spikers’ Turf debut.
Nadera once again paced Alpha Insurance with 17 points, while Camposano and JJ Javelona added 15 and 12 points, respectively, in the defeat.
The Protectors look to finally get their first win against the Sealions, also on Wednesday.
