It was the top overall pick versus the second selection on Saturday night in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Adding to the excitement of their first professional clash was the history between the two rookies: top pick Thea Gagate and second pick Leila Cruz were former teammates at De La Salle University.
Gagate’s ZUS Coffee came out on top against Cruz’s Capital1, dominating the match in straight sets, 31-29, 25-15, 25-15, to secure the Thunderbelles’ third win in seven outings.
Although there wasn’t much communication between the two former Lady Spikers before the game, their connection was evident on the Taraflex.
(C) PVL Images
“Before this game, wala naman kami napag-usapan ni Thea. Pero ‘yung kanina during the game, parang nagkaka-eye contact kami,” shared the 6-foot-1 Solar Spikers opposite hitter.
“Super grateful na nakakalaro ko pa rin si Thea and happy na kahit sa other side na siya, at least we still have that connection namin sa La Salle,” Cruz added.
Gagate contributed eight points to the Thunderbelles’ victory, with three of her teammates reaching double figures. Chinnie Arroyo led the way with 15 points, while Chai Troncoso and Mich Gamit chipped in 12 apiece.
On the other side, Cruz did not play in the first set but managed to score four points. Jorelle Singh led Capital1’s offense with 10 points.
For Gagate, the match was a bittersweet moment of nostalgia as she reunited with Cruz, albeit on opposing sides.
“Exciting lang kasi first time nga namin and medyo naninibago pa kami sa ganitong set-up since matagal kaming magkasama nung college. Parang excited lang kami sa experience sa PVL,” said the 6-foot-2 middle blocker.
“Happy lang din kami kung saan kami ngayon and nagkakamustahan and nagwi-wish kami ng best of luck sa isa’t isa.”
