The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles will have their hands full in the 2024-2025 PVL All-Filipino Conference as they face a stacked Akari Chargers in their first game.
The Akari Chargers aim to continue their winning ways as they take on the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in an eagerly awaited matchup of the 2024-2025 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Scheduled for November 14, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the FilOil EcoOil Arena, the game holds extra significance for the Thunderbelles, who are on the hunt for their first-ever franchise victory.
Coming off a hard-fought win over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, the Chargers showcased resilience with a 28-30, 25-15, 25-16, 25-23 victory.
Leading the way was Gretchel Soltones, who scored 16 points, highlighting her effectiveness with 13 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace.
Adding to the Chargers' momentum is the return of key players Fifi Sharma and Faith Nisperos, who recently completed their commitments with Alas Pilipinas. Nisperos, fresh off the bench, also posted 16 points and credited her confidence boost to her stint with Alas.
The Thunderbelles, meanwhile, are debuting their revamped roster and eyeing a historic first franchise win.
Headlining the lineup is the returning star Jovelyn Gonzaga, known as the "Bionic Ilongga," whose energy and experience from the Cignal HD Spikers will be pivotal.
[READ: Jovelyn Gonzaga makes PVL return with ZUS Coffee ahead of All-Filipino Conference]
Alongside Gonzaga are talented additions like Kate Santiago, Chinnie Arroyo, and Joan Narit from the Farm Fresh Foxies, as well as Chai Troncoso from Cignal.
[ALSO READ: PVL: ZUS Coffee snaps up spiker Chai Troncoso after time with Cignal]
Additionally, the Thunderbelles will showcase the league’s number one draft pick, Thea Gagate, who, after her commitment with Alas Pilipinas, is set to make her much-anticipated debut.
[RELATED: PVL: No. 1 Pick Thea Gagate excited to team up with CSB core in ZUS Coffee]
This clash at the FilOil EcoOil Arena promises high energy and intense play, as the Chargers look to continue their streak and the Thunderbelles strive for their breakthrough win.
Both teams have much to prove, and this match could set the tone for a thrilling season ahead.