The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles seek to end their 0-2 start as they take on the Akari Chargers in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles aim to halt their early slide as they face the Akari Chargers in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
The Thunderbelles head into the match still searching for their first win after back-to-back losses to the Capital1 Solar Spikers and Galeries Tower Highrisers.
Despite flashes of competitiveness, ZUS Coffee has struggled to close out key stretches, leaving them at 0-2 early in the conference.
Thea Gagate is expected to be a central figure in ZUS Coffee's attempt to steady the ship. The former top overall draft pick brings length and presence at the net, putting up double-digit scoring in both of their matches.
She will be supported by Jovelyn Gonzaga, Chinnie Arroyo, and Riza Nogales as the Thunderbelles look to regain rhythm and improve their transition play.
The Thunderbelles have proven to still be an elite defensive team, but they will need more attacking options in order to secure the victory against a gritty Chargers squad.
Head coach Jerry Yee is not expected to join the team just yet, as he takes a temporary leave of absence for health reasons.
With both teams eager to bounce back, ZUS Coffee understands the importance of this matchup in preventing a deeper early hole in the standings.
First serve is set for 6:30 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo/One Sports)
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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.]