Back in the inaugural PVL draft last July, PLDT’s first and only selection was Angge Alcantara, a backup setter from Adamson University in the UAAP.
In her first professional action during the Reinforced Conference, she scarcely played. Alcantara appeared in just 12 sets across the High Speed Hitters’ 10 games, as she served as the second setter behind Kim Fajardo.
After their heartbreak in the Reinforced Conference, though, PLDT suffered a significant setback.
Fajardo finally underwent surgery to treat her persistent knee injury, forcing the veteran playmaker to miss the start of the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference.
This prompted head coach Rald Ricafort to throw Alcantara into the fire, starting her in the High Speed Hitters’ opener against the Nxled Chameleons on Tuesday.
And the 5-foot-5 setter, who graduated magna cum laude, instantly showcased her skills. She led PLDT to a 25-15, 25-17, 22-25, 25-22 win while earning player of the game honors with her 13 excellent sets and three points.
(C) PVL Images
“Siyempre nagpapasalamat po ako sa tiwala ni coach sa akin. Yun, in-embrace ko lang din yung role ko at focus lang talaga,” said the 23-year-old Alcantara.
“Wala namang choice. Tinanggap ko lang. Bukal naman sa loob ko and inisip ko na rin na it’s my time na rin para mag-step up.”
To address the gap in the setter position, the High Speed Hitters signed Angelica Legacion, but it was Alcantara who got the starting role this time.
According to Ricafort, Alcantara’s elevation to a larger role was part of the plan from the moment they drafted her, as they saw something special in her.
“Ano lang, siguro from the draft, di naman kami kumuha ng parang addition lang,” said the champion coach.
“Alam namin yung roles na ifu-fulfill ng mga kinukuha namin. Happy kami na nakasimula nang maganda si Angge. Hopefully maging consistent all throughout.”
Alcantara’s playmaking led to a balanced PLDT attack, with five players reaching double digits in scoring, led by Savi Davison’s 19 points.
Erika Santos added 15, Majoy Baron contributed 14, Fiola Ceballos had 13, and Dell Palomata chipped in with 10.
