Jaja Santiago and Saitama cruised to their second-straight win, trouncing Denso in four sets, 25-23, 24-26, 25-17, 25-22, Saturday in the 2021-22 Japan V.League Division 1 women’s tournament at the KitaGas Arena in Sapporo.
The 6-foot-5 Filipina erupted for a season-high 17 points built on 14 attacks and three blocks. She also was efficient in the attacking department, going 14-of-23, a high 60.9 percent.
Yuka Sato also got 17 points of her own for the Ageo Medics. Meanwhile, Kyoko Aoyagi and Mami Uchiseto joined the party with 12 points apiece.
After an extended second frame that saw the Airybees equalize at 1-1, 26-24, Saitama was quick to respond.
The Santiago-led squad went out in the third period with a statement, eventually nabbing a 25-17 victory before closing out the match in the fourth.
Brazilian import Lorenne Teixeira also breached double digits with 13 points.
Saitama improved to 5-4.
Roslandy Acosta carried Denso with 23 points but needed 65 attempts. Rei Kudou was the only other Airybee in twin figures with 11 points as they fell to 6-3.
The two squads meet again tomorrow at 12:00 NN at the same arena.
