ANTIPOLO CITY — It took ZUS Coffee 20 long matches and nearly two full seasons to finally clinch its first-ever Premier Volleyball League victory, but the Thunderbelles didn’t just break their losing streak – they issued a bold warning to the rest of the All-Filipino Conference: They’re here to compete.
In a hard-fought battle at the Ynares Center here on Tuesday, the Thunderbelles pulled off a breakthrough 19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-15 win against the Nxled Chameleons. The victory not only marked the end of their 20-game losing streak dating back to their Strong Group Athletics days in 2024 but also showcased their transformation into a gritty, determined team capable of holding their ground against experienced squads.
“We’re only starting,” declared coach Jerry Yee after the win. “Kahit nu’ng first conference namin, we had a few months to train. Kahit naman itong All-Filipino, kahit papano, parang late additions din ‘yung mga veterans.”
This newfound identity was evident on the court as the Thunderbelles shook off a shaky start and recovered from a first-set loss to claim the next three sets in thrilling fashion. Veterans like Jovelyn Gonzaga provided a steadying presence, while young talents like inaugural draft pick Thea Gagate injected energy and power.
The Thunderbelles’ performance in the fourth set was particularly eye-opening. They raced to a commanding 16-5 lead and, despite a late rally from the Chameleons, closed the match with a cool composure that had been missing in previous campaigns.
Gayle Pascual sealed the deal with three clutch points, epitomizing the team’s emerging resilience.
For a team that had endured back-to-back winless runs in both the 2024 All-Filipino and Reinforced Conferences, this victory is more than just a number in the win column. It’s a turning point. Yee highlighted the impact of the team's experienced players.
“Yung mga veterans, ang laking bagay sa amin kasi we know the tempo, we know the fight, we know the hits. Pero ang ‘di namin alam is ‘yung pag-slow down, ‘yung mag-drop kung kailan kailangan. Now, we’re learning,” he said.
Gonzaga, who exploded for 23 points on an efficient 20-of-30 attacking clip, helped make ZUS Coffee a team to watch. The seasoned lefty also contributed three blocks and 12 digs, exemplifying her all-around game and role as the team’s cornerstone.
Meanwhile, Thea Gagate showed why she was the No. 1 draft pick, tallying 16 points built on 10 spikes, five blocks and an ace, while team captain Cloanne Mondoñedo played her role to perfection, orchestrating the team’s offense with 17 excellent sets.
ZUS Coffee looks to make it back-to-back against Galeries Tower on Nov. 28 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Chiara Permentilla once again led the charge for the Chameleons with 19 points while Lucille Almonte added 12 points, eight digs and five receptions.
Nxled seeks to check its skid when it tangles with Chery Tiggo next Tuesday, also at the Pasig venue.
