Young Rachel Lacayanga is eager to absorb every ounce of knowledge from her experienced teammates at Galeries Tower in the 2025 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational Tournament.
Lacayanga is making the most of her opportunity to play alongside decorated veterans Ambie Almazan and Cindy Resultay, determined to carry that experience into her second year with the University of the East Lady Warriors in UAAP Season 88.
“Okay naman po kasi marami ka talagang matututunan galing sa kanila. Kasi dati nung college sila, shini-share nila sa amin ‘yung mga experience nila, mga achievements nila. Mamo-motivate ka talaga kapag kasama mo sila,” said Lacayanga.
Almazan and Resultay are two of the most accomplished women’s basketball players in the country, having excelled in both the UAAP and on the national team.
More than a decade ago, Almazan guided Adamson University to back-to-back championships in UAAP Seasons 72 and 73—the school’s last women’s basketball titles. She was also named both MVP and Finals MVP in both seasons.
Meanwhile, Resultay stands as one of the finest players to emerge from the UE program, earning Rookie of the Year honors in Season 70 and a Mythical Team selection in Season 71. Both Almazan and Resultay also represented the Philippines in international competitions during the mid-2010s.
For Lacayanga, being around such proven players is invaluable as she continues to grow and develop her skills.
(C) WMPBL
She expressed gratitude for the guidance and wisdom the two have imparted—not just to her but to her fellow Lady Warriors who are also part of the Skyrisers.
“Sobrang gandang impact sa akin kasi parang sa’kin, kapag kasama mo sila ‘yung experience mo na ‘yun madadala mo sa college journey mo sa UAAP. Parang mapapasok mo ‘yung mga natutunan mo kapag maglalaro ka na,” said Lacayanga.
Galeries head coach Ai Lebornio, who also handles UE, echoed Lacayanga’s sentiments and emphasized the invaluable role Almazan and Resultay play in mentoring the younger players.
Other Lady Warriors competing with the Skyrisers include Moana Vacalaeres, Aliyah Ronquillo, Kezza Buscar, and Kamba Kone.
“Napakalaki. Laking bagay. Kasi nakita ko ‘yung difference nung maturity ng mga bata kasi puro rookie ‘yun eh, ‘yung mga players ko. So napakalaking bagay sa amin and thankful ako dahil nasama ko sila dito kasi madadala nila ‘yung experience sa UAAP,” said Lebornio.
Galeries, now holding a 5-1 record, is on the verge of securing a spot in the playoffs. The Skyrisers bolstered their bid with a crucial 63-58 victory over Pilipinas Aguilas yesterday, powered by strong performances from Resultay and May May Canuto.
The Skyrisers aim to lock in their quarterfinals ticket when they face Cavite-TOL on Wednesday at the New Era Gym.
