Bryan Bagunas, fresh from leading WinStreak to the Top League championship in Taiwan, is back in the country to join Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography in their battle for bronze against Iloilo in the 2023 Spikers' Turf Open Conference.
The six-foot-five wing spiker dropped an impressive 37 points on 27 attacks, seven service aces, and three blocks in Game 1 of their best-of-three finals series against Taipower in Taiwan. Though limited to just 21 points in Game 2, Bagunas bounced back in the winner-take-all Game 3, exploding for 42 points on 39 spikes, two blocks, and an ace to secure the title for WinStreak.
Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography head coach Sammy Acaylar acknowledged the significant impact Bryan Bagunas could have on the team's campaign. He said, "Bryan will definitely help up, he can be a big help to the team."
While the team fell short of their main goal of taking the Spikers' Turf title in their first conference, Acaylar still expressed his contentment with the AJAA Spikers' performance, reaching the Top Four. However, he couldn't help but think about what could have been if Bagunas made it in time for the round-robin semifinals, which could have easily turned the tide to their favor.
Acaylar is aware of the strengths of their upcoming opponent Iloilo, but he is confident that his team can secure a victory with Bagunas on board. The AJAA Spikers won both of their games against the D'Navigators in this conference, securing a five-setter win in the eliminations before taking a four-set victory in the semis.
Game 2 of the battle for bronze is scheduled on Friday, with Game 3 to be played on Sunday if necessary. Bagunas' return to the Spikers' Turf is a welcome addition to Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography's lineup, and his presence may just be what the team needs to clinch the bronze medal.
