Coming in as a replacement team, University of Santo Tomas-Gameville made a strong statement with a straight-set victory over PGJC-Navy, 25-22, 25-17, 25-21, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Wednesday at Paco Arena.
Joshua Ybañez was unstoppable, erupting for 16 points built on 10 attacks, four aces, and two kill blocks, along with 16 excellent receptions and four digs.
The Golden Spikers — who replaced De La Salle University after it withdrew due to academic commitments — surged to their first win of the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Despite committing 30 errors, UST-Gameville dominated in all scoring categories. They out-gunned PGJC-Navy in attacks (43-28), blocks (7-1), and aces (6-1), completing the one-hour, 21-minute sweep.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
“Buti walang opening-game jitters, pero we have lots of things to polish pa. Of course masaya ako kasi confidence boosting ito,” said Golden Spikers head coach Odjie Mamon.
“We have a game this Friday against Savouge. At least going to that game nanalo kami, so medyo mataas ang morale. Ang problema ko lang is ‘yung short time to prepare, so tomorrow we’ll do more recovery exercises,” he added.
Dux Yambao contributed 21 excellent sets and five points as UST-Gameville passed their opening test in the league supported by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings n’ Things, and Arena Plus.
Al-Bukharie Sali was the other double-digit scorer for UST-Gameville with 10 points, while Trevor Valera added eight.
The Golden Spikers will aim to sustain their momentum when they face Savouge on Friday at 4:00 PM at the same venue.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
For PGJC-Navy, Greg Dolor led the Sealions with nine points on eight attacks and one block, while Bonjomar Castel added six.
Joeven Dela Vega returned after a long bout with a health condition and contributed two points.
The Sealions will seek their first win of the tournament against Far Eastern University-DN Steel, also on Friday at 2:00 PM.
All games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, as well as through the Pilipinas Live app, which offers video-on-demand options. Games will also be streamed via spikersturf.ph.
