Discovery-Rizal star Raiza Palmera-Dy lauded Angel Anies for stepping up in her absence during the team’s semis-clinching win over RK Hoops-Quezon City in the 2025 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL).
Palmera-Dy missed Perlas’ dominant 90-54 quarterfinal victory over RK Hoops last Sunday as she had to coach Far Eastern University later that day.
But Discovery-Rizal hardly felt her absence, as Anies turned in her best performance yet — firing 21 points built on five triples, along with eight assists and four rebounds — while taking charge as the team’s starting point guard.
“Syempre very proud of her and of the team,” said Palmera-Dy, who averaged 11.3 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds in the regular season, after FEU’s 94-66 win over UP in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament.
Palmera-Dy said she was confident that Anies — along with the rest of the squad — could deliver in her absence, having witnessed their hard work and growth over the past few months.
(C) WMPBL Images
“Kung may wala na isa, somebody has to step up. Next man [up] ang mentality namin for coach Derrick [Pumaren], ganun naman pa lagi,” said the 34-year-old player-turned-coach, as Camille Sambile and Loraine Capilit also contributed with 14 and nine points, respectively.
“May tiwala naman ako sa mga teammates ko, whoever ‘yung magfi-fill in ng role ko because I’ve seen them for the past few months and I know that they can deliver.”
Head coach Derrick Pumaren echoed Palmera-Dy’s sentiments, commending Anies for her poise and timely execution on both ends of the floor. He said the guard’s shot-making and playmaking were crucial in setting the tone early, allowing Perlas to take full control of the game.
“Angel [Anies] was hot today. She was really hot today — she was making her shots, she was making plays for us, and I think that’s why we also made that big run because of Angel’s offense tonight,” said the veteran mentor.
With Anies hitting her stride at the perfect time, Palmera-Dy said her continued strong play will be vital as Discovery-Rizal heads into the best-of-three semifinals against top-ranked New Zealand Bluefire-Batangas on Sunday.
“Malaking bagay dahil ‘yun nga, siyempre hindi naman lahat ng players malalaro ‘yung A-game every game. I think it’s good na magkaroon kami ng additional option for my role sa Discovery,” Palmera-Dy said.
