The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles open their PVL on Tour campaign against the Akari Chargers, leaning on Jovelyn Gonzaga and a mix of new additions to compensate for the absence of former top pick Thea Gagate.
The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles are looking to build on their breakthrough campaign as they face the Akari Chargers in their first PVL on Tour match at the Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal Saturday, July 6.
Coming off a seventh-place finish in the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference—their best result since entering the league—the Thunderbelles aim to carry that momentum into the preseason tilt.
Veteran leader Jovelyn Gonzaga headlines ZUS Coffee’s attack, alongside key holdovers Chai Troncoso and Cloanne Mondonedo.
With last season’s top overall pick Thea Gagate possibly unavailable due to Alas Pilipinas duties, the Jerry Yee-led squad will rely on a retooled lineup featuring new recruits and promising rookies.
Veterans Alyssa Eroa, Maika Ortiz, and Fiola Ceballos are expected to provide immediate impact, while rookies AC Miner, Mycah Go, and Rizza Nogales will be out to make a strong first impression in the pro ranks.
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The match against Akari serves as an early test for ZUS Coffee’s revamped core as the Thunderbelles look to make a deep run in the preseason tilt.
The match is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]