Jasmine Nabor's remarkable journey is one of bouncing back from disappointment, and she attributes her time with Foton in the previous season for her impressive performance in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Second All-Filipino Conference as a returning member of Chery Tiggo.
In the midst of Chery Tiggo's dominant 25-14, 25-15, 25-21 victory over the newcomer Galeries, Nabor displayed her exceptional skills as an attacking playmaker. Her contribution of seven points, which included three blocks, two aces, and two successful attacks, alongside her 14 excellent sets, earned her the coveted Player of the Game title, underscoring her resurgence in the league.
Nabor's journey to this point has been marked by its share of ups and downs, but it was her time with Foton that played a pivotal role in her growth.
"Being with Foton in the past was a huge help. It boosted my morale and brought back my confidence," Nabor shared after securing their second consecutive win.
The decision to transfer to Foton came when the management of Chery Tiggo decided to create another team, the Tornadoes. In the 2023 Invitational Conference, Nabor, alongside her fellow players, embraced this new venture. However, their journey was abruptly cut short as they finished 11th out of 13 teams, ultimately leading to the dissolution of the team and Nabor's return to Chery Tiggo.
Nabor's performance in the match against Farm Fresh on Tuesday was nothing short of spectacular, recording 15 excellent sets and contributing three points, including two service aces. These outstanding performances, combined with her recognition as the Player of the Game, have intensified Nabor's drive to continue excelling as the conference progresses.
"It's truly delightful because it's a significant boost for my confidence and an opportunity for further improvement. It's also gratifying that everything the coach asks for is reflected in the game, no matter who's on the court," she shared.
Chery Tiggo's head coach, Aaron Velez, who was also Foton's team manager when it was still in existence, explained the rationale behind Nabor's transfer to the Tornadoes in the previous conference.
"Everything was well-planned; our players know that we don't just leave them hanging or let them go. It's all designed," Velez revealed. It wasn't merely about assigning players to any team; it was about what they could gain from the experience, regardless of the coach or teammates they were playing with.
Jasmine Nabor's journey, from the setback of Foton's disbandment to her resurgence as a key player for Chery Tiggo, serves as a testament to her unwavering spirit, adaptability, and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way.