Gian Glorioso put on a blocking masterclass last Sunday, leading Criss Cross to a commanding victory against D’Navigators Iloilo in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference held at the Ynares Sports Arena.
The former Ateneo standout showcased his defensive prowess with an impressive eight kill blocks, contributing to a decisive 25-18, 25-14, 25-16 win that lasted just one hour and 24 minutes.
Finishing with a game-high 14 points, Glorioso's performance was a testament to the team's collective effort. He credited his teammates for their exceptional floor defense and solid serving, emphasizing that his standout showing was the result of hard work and teamwork.
“Yung blocking obviously is something that I focus on. At the same time, nakakapag-focus ako sa blockings knowing na ‘yung mga teammates ko ginagawa nila ‘yung trabaho nila sa depensa, sa receive, sa serve,” he said after the match.
With a height of 6 feet 4 inches, Glorioso spearheaded Criss Cross’s formidable net defense against D’Navigators, helping the team achieve a total of 19 blocks in their swift, straight-set victory.
This win positioned Criss Cross in solo third place with a 2-0 record in the tournament, which is supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
Glorioso is seizing the moment, especially with veteran middle blocker Kim Malabunga sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained in a freak accident just minutes before their tournament debut against VNS on October 16.
In their first match, Glorioso came off the bench, contributing six points in the third set of the victory against the Griffins. Against D’Navigators, he was inserted into the starting lineup, replacing Chu Njigha.
“So first game without Kim, obviously we’re praying for his speedy recovery pero tuloy pa rin naman ‘yung tournament so kahit anong mangyari, we’re always just prepared,” Glorioso noted. “No matter who gets put on the court, prepared lang lagi maglaro and to deliver.”