With a wealth of experience this time, College of Saint Benilde is determined to break the UAAP’s dominance in the V-League Collegiate Challenge, beginning today at Paco Arena.
Standing in the defending NCAA champions’ way in their first game for the conference is a familiar foe in Lyceum of the Philippines University at 2:00 p.m.
Merely four months ago, the Lady Blazers and Lady Pirates clashed in the finals of the Grand Old League, with CSB sweeping LPU to secure their second consecutive crown and extend their winning streak to 29 games.
Presently, the Lady Blazers boast a roster filled with experience, led by key players such as Gayle Pascual, Jade Gentapa, Michelle Gamit, Wielyn Estoque, and Cloanne Mondonedo. These players are coming off a stint with Farm Fresh in the Premier Volleyball League.
However, the Lady Pirates are not to be underestimated in this tournament organized by the Sports Vision Management Group Inc. and supported by Bola.TV, Beyond Active Wear, ASICS, and Mikasa as reigning NCAA Best Setter, Venice Puzon, also brings experience from her time with PLDT.
In the other women’s game scheduled for 4:00 p.m., NCAA contenders, the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, will face their long-standing rival, San Sebastian College-Recoletos.
Meanwhile, University of Santo Tomas men’s team will open the quadruple-header, broadcasted on Solar TV, the official V-League website, and Bola.TV, against De La Salle University.
Leading the Golden Spikers is none other than the reigning UAAP Rookie MVP, Josh Ybanez.
On the other hand, the Altas will aim for their second consecutive victory as they confront the San Beda Red Spikers at 12:00 p.m.
This marks Edgar Barroga’s debut as the head coach of the Mendiola-based spikers.