Though they may now be playing for different teams, ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles' Kate Santiago and Farm Fresh Foxies' Trisha Tubu remain bound by a deep friendship.
Friends and teammates.
It's rare to find a bond that combines both, but Kate and Trisha have shared this connection since high school. Teammates and friends for years, the former Adamson Lady Falcons' journey has been filled with victories, challenges, and countless memories.
Now, with Kate moving on to play for the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, it might feel like the end of an era for the iconic duo. But their friendship remains unwavering.
"Na-sad siya. Sobrang iyak niya. Kasi ilang beses na kaming nagpa-play with each other sa isang team," Kate said, reflecting on the moment they found out they'd be playing for different teams.
"No'ng nalaman namin 'yong news na 'yon, sobrang nag-iyakan kami kahit nasa bakasyon kami no'n, which is dapat masaya nga," Trisha shared with One Sports.
Yes, the separation may bring a touch of sadness, but both Kate and Trisha are cheering for each other's growth as athletes, knowing that this is part of their individual journeys.
"Pero masaya kasi para sa growth niya. Exciting din kasi first time ko siyang makakalaban sa kabilang team," Trisha said, already looking forward to their first face-off.
For Kate, this new chapter is an opportunity for even more growth.
"Mas makikita niyo po akong naglalaro. Mag-eexplore din po ng new skills and improvement," she added, ready to show her evolving skills on the court.
But will this affect the playful banter between them?
"Tatalunin ko si Tubs. Hindi siya makaka-block sa akin," Kate teased with a laugh.
"Tignan natin kung paano kami magkukulitan kahit nasa magkabilang court na," Trisha responded, reminding everyone that while teams may change, their friendship remains as strong as ever.