The two volleybelles aren't forgetting how their high school coach helped shape their abilities.
Interim coach Noel Orcullo admitted to the media that he didn't expect the De La Salle Lady Spikers to sweep the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws in straight sets, 25-15, 25-18, 25-21.
After all, the squad in green and gold had defeated the Ateneo Blue Eagles just before.
But just like in the straight-set victory against the University of the East Lady Red Warriors, Orcullo was still not content with squad's performance.
Against UE, he warned the Lady Spikers against disrespecting their opponents. Against FEU, he instructed his players against easing up the pressure.
"'Pag malayo kami, nagrerelax. Binibigyan ng pagkakataon ang kalaban na bumalik," he said.
"Sabi ko sa kanila, 'pag binigyan ng pagkakataon sila na bumalik, kakainin tayo niyan. Hinahayaan niyo, binibigyan niyo ng kumpyansa."
The La Salle Lady Spikers, though, said they have nothing but respect for FEU. After all, key players Angel Canino and Alleiah Malaluan were former wards of coach Tina Salak in high school.
"'Yung disiplina andun talaga," Malaluan said of the Tina Salak-mentored team. "Going up against her, andun pa rin 'yung respect pero proud pa rin ako sa kanya. Ang layo na rin ng naabot ng FEU."
"'Yung disiplina, 'yung part na 'yun ay bakit nag-improve ang FEU ng sobra in less than a year," Canino added. "Sobrang proud ako sa kanya."
The super rookie, who had 13 points alongside 7 excellent digs and 8 excellent receptions, shared how Salak really wanted to teach young athletes and help them improve.
"Siya 'yung unang coach na nag-recruit, nagtiwala sa'kin," Canino said.
La Salle has two remaining games in the first round, and they happen to be some of the toughest—as they go against host Adamson Lady Falcons and defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs.
(With reports from Mei-Lin Lozada, One Sports Digital)