Kindai University schooled ProVolley Academy in straight sets, 25-15, 25-12, 25-13, for a dominant debut in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Japanese squad showcased its trademark pace and precision from the opening serve, overwhelming the Australians with relentless ball control and quick-hit execution that never allowed ProVolley Academy to find a rhythm.
“Thank you for the invite. I’m really happy to be part of this conference,” said Kindai University head coach Hideyuki Mitsuyama through an interpreter.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Kindai University asserted control across all facets of the game, recording 53 attacks, seven blocks, and two aces in a one-hour, five-minute victory.
ProVolley Academy struggled to keep pace, managing just 24 attacks, a single block, and failing to register any aces, highlighting the gap between the two teams in their opening match.
“I appreciate being able to play volleyball in front of Philippine fans, and I feel it’s a big challenge going up against the Philippine teams,” added Haruka Misugi, who was named Player of the Game after scoring a game-high 16 points.
Ryutaro Aun contributed 12 points, all from attacks, while Tojiro Shimomasu added 10 markers for the young Japanese squad, who, along with Savouge, took an early lead in the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, Arena Plus, and Black Mamba.
Yoshiki Yasuda added eight points, 11 excellent receptions, and seven digs, while Kentaro Hata chipped in seven markers off the bench.
Fil-Japanese middle blocker Yuma Onabe, listed as the team’s second libero, did not see action.
Kindai University faces top-seeded Criss Cross in what promises to be a challenging match on Saturday at 3:00 PM at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Samuel Hansen led ProVolley Academy with 10 points. Filipinos Jude Aspero and JR Prospero also made notable contributions, with Aspero tallying five points and 11 excellent receptions, while Prospero recorded 11 excellent receptions and five digs.
All games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, with video-on-demand access available via the Pilipinas Live app. Matches are also streamed on spikersturf.ph.
