Josh Ybañez has been a force on both ends of the court for UST-Gameville in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference.
It’s no easy feat being a collegiate squad competing in a league filled with stars and seasoned veterans.
But University of Santo Tomas-Gameville has been holding its own, giving powerhouse teams a run for their money in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
Despite joining the tournament as a late replacement, the Golden Spikers have made a strong impression in their first appearance since 2018—thanks largely to the all-around brilliance of versatile open spiker Josh Ybañez.
UST-Gameville’s impressive 3-1 win-loss record mirrors Ybañez’s consistent excellence on the court.
The Alas Pilipinas standout showcased his offensive and defensive prowess when the Golden Spikers survived a grueling five-set thriller over Alpha Insurance Protectors, 26-24, 25-22, 35-37, 19-25, 22-20, last Friday.
Ybañez tallied 20 points built on 18 attacks, one block, and one ace, while also contributing 30 excellent receptions in the marathon match that pushed both teams to their limits.
For his stellar all-around play, Ybañez earned a well-deserved recognition as the Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week powered by Pilipinas Live for the period of November 5 to 7.
“Of course, I’m always proud sa mga teammates ko. I’m so happy na we ended up getting the result that we want,” said Ybañez.
“Gusto lang namin manalo, and sa kanila [sa team] naman siguro… kailangan pa namin mag-ensayo ng maayos pa.”
Ybañez was a unanimous choice for the weekly honor, beating out his UST-Gameville teammates Al-Bukharie Sali and Edriel Alabar in deliberations by print and online reporters covering the pioneering men’s volleyball league organized by Sports Vision.
Also considered for the award were Cignal’s Jay Rack Dela Noche, Criss Cross’ Jude Garcia and Noel Kampton, and Savouge’s Sherwin Caritativo.
The Golden Spikers will next face defending champion Cignal HD Spikers on Wednesday at the Paco Arena, hoping to extend their winning momentum.
The tournament is streamed live and on demand via the Pilipinas Live app and www.spikersturf.ph.
“I think it’s better if mag-focus muna kami sa sarili namin because pag focus kami and alam namin yung ginagawa namin sa court as a team, may laban naman kami lagi sa kung sino mang kalaban,” said Ybañez.
However, UST-Gameville will have to make do without their star spiker soon, as Ybañez is set to join the national team training for the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
Still, the former two-time UAAP MVP remains grateful for every chance to suit up as an attacker for UST-Gameville before returning to libero with the national squad.