Nico Almendras entered the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference with a fresh sense of purpose.
Just a day before the season-opening tournament, Almendras tied the knot with his longtime partner, Justine Pesigan, who is now five months pregnant.
With their first child on the way, Almendras has found even greater motivation to perform at his best in the Spikers’ Turf.
The former National University standout was granted time off and missed the King Crunchers’ opening-day win against VNS-Laticrete. He was later eased into action during their straight-set victory over Alpha Insurance.
On Wednesday night, Almendras made his return to the starting lineup, showcasing an all-around performance to help Criss Cross fend off PGJC-Navy, 25-17, 25-27, 25-20, 25-20, at the Ynares Sports Arena.
“Siguro para sa akin, mas mamo-motivate ako kasi ‘yun nga, magkakapamilya na ako at magkakaanak na ako. ‘Yun ‘yung magiging motivation ko sa mga upcoming games namin,” Almendras said after the match.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
He delivered 14 points, including 12 attacks and two blocks, while also tallying 13 excellent receptions. Despite missing part of the team’s final preparations due to wedding arrangements, he seamlessly reintegrated into the squad.
“Okay naman, wala namang masyadong adjustments. Siguro nag-focus lang kami sa tinraining namin at pinakita namin sa loob ng court.”
Almendras expressed gratitude to his teammates for stepping up in his absence, helping Criss Cross start the tournament with a 3-0 record, tying defending champion Cignal for the top spot.
“Sobrang happy ako na naiintindihan nila ako kasi nga ikakasal ako. Thankful ako sa teammates ko kasi sobrang naiintindihan nila kung ano ‘yung kalagayan ko,” said the 2022 Open Conference Finals MVP.
His absence saw second-stringer Jaron Requinton rise to the occasion, averaging 12.3 points in Criss Cross’ past three games. Almendras acknowledged Requinton’s contributions and was grateful for the team’s depth.
“Alam ko naman na ready ‘yung mga teammates ko. Sinabihan ko sila na mawawala ako, so may papalit sa akin. Babalik naman ako, kaya happy ako na binalik ako ulit ni coach Tai (Bundit) sa first six.”
