Having witnessed superb teamwork and precise communication in the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles’ thrilling 21-25, 25-22, 25-16, 21-25, 15-5 win over the De La Salle University Lady Spikers, team captain Alyssa Valdez simply couldn’t hide her satisfaction
“Personally, when I saw [each of my] teammates, [I can see] sa eyes nila na they’re inspired to play. So kung ikaw, ganoon ang teammates mo, siyempre you’re going to do your best also,” Valdez told reporters. “I think [we’ve timed] na nag-gel ang team and really played happy today, we really smiled today inside and outside the court.”
Unlike their first round encounter, the Lady Eagles saw multiple contributions aside from Valdez’ and Jho Maraguinot’s usual big performances. This game saw Bea De Leon come to life as she scored 14 points and 3 kill blocks, while Kim Gequillana displayed an unsung performance after she dropped 9 points and anchored Ateneo’s floor defense.
Moreover, Gizelle Tan played well as the team’s libero with 14 excellent receptions, while Jia Morado once again displayed her setting prowess after finishing with a game-high 62 excellent sets.
“I think in today’s game, everyone played well [like] Bea, Kiwi, Gizelle [and] the crucial points coming from Kim [and] si Jho siyempre,” Valdez added. “Everyone contributed talaga in this game. Today, we really came here to play and enjoyed the game. Everything is really a bonus.”
Lastly, Valdez also remarked that Ateneo’s campaign is far from over, as they are set to face either the University of the Philippines Lady Maroons or the National University Lady Bulldogs in the upcoming Final Four. Ateneo’s win over La Salle may be a triumphant moment, but they cannot savour it for long since tougher tasks await the team once the playoffs arrive.
“I think there is no time in savoring this moment kasi mahaba pa talaga [ang season], so let’s focus and look forward sa next games [in the upcoming Final Four],” Valdez closed.
