Somehow, it seems like the result wasn't at all important to the two volleybelles.
Back in June, Jaja Santiago continued her career in the Japan V.League by signing with division 1 team JT Marvelous. Then, just three months later, she was joined in Japan by another Filipina volleyball superstar in Jia de Guzman, who took her championship-caliber playmaking to the Denso Airybees.
Naturally, diehard volleyball fans couldn’t help but look forward to the two’s first meeting overseas.
It happened on Saturday, when Santiago’s JT Marvelous rebounded from an early two-set deficit to pull off a reverse sweep, 23-25, 23-25, 25-16, 25-21, 17-15, over de Guzman’s Airybees.
Santiago was her usual productive self, chipping in 13 points built on nine attacks, three blocks, and one ace for JT. Unfortunately, de Guzman saw limited playing time for Denso.
Not that it mattered to the two Filipinas, who were just grateful for the chance to share the same court in an actual match.
In fact, on Sunday, de Guzman and Santiago traded touching messages on Instagram that highlighted how extra meaningful their encounter was on Saturday.
Santiago, in an Instagram Story, reposted a picture of her and de Guzman sharing a tight embrace after the game. The photo itself had all the feels. The caption was even more emotional.
“Thank you for capturing this moment,” wrote Santiago, presumably for the person who snapped the photo.
Then, she gave a special shout out to the longtime Creamline Cool Smasher setter.
“I’m always proud of this girl, @juliacmorado! I’m so happy to see you playing here in Japan!” Santiago said. “Looking forward sa day off natin at magkita tayo. More chika ituu! Love you!”
The Airybees newcomer was not to be outdone, posting on her own Instagram Story a photo of her and Santiago with an equally touching message.
“This girl is amazing!” de Guzman wrote. So proud of you, @alyjasantiago3! Love you always.”
Well, the whole Filipino volleyball community is certainly proud of you both—and you can definitely count on its continued support.
Keep making the country proud, ladies!