Kindai University made a sensational debut in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, overwhelming ProVolley Academy in straight sets, 25-15, 25-12, 25-13, Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
From the opening serve, the Japanese squad showcased their trademark pace and precision, leaving the Australians scrambling. With relentless ball control and quick-hit execution, Kindai University never allowed ProVolley Academy to find any rhythm.
“Thank you for the invite. I’m really happy to be part of this conference,” said Kindai University head coach Hideyuki Mitsuyama through an interpreter.
The Japanese side dominated across all facets, delivering 53 attacks, seven blocks, and two aces in a commanding 65-minute performance. In contrast, ProVolley Academy struggled to keep up, managing just 24 attacks, a single block, and no aces, underscoring the gulf between the teams in their opening clash.
Haruka Misugi, who tallied a game-high 16 points, was named Player of the Game. “I appreciate being able to play volleyball in front of Philippine fans. It’s a big challenge going up against the Philippine teams,” she said.
Ryutaro Aun contributed 12 points—all from attacks—while Tojiro Shimomasu added 10 markers for the Japanese squad, who now share early tournament leadership with Savouge. Off the bench, Kentaro Hata added seven points, and Yoshiki Yasuda contributed eight points, 11 excellent receptions, and seven digs. Fil-Japanese middle blocker Yuma Onabe, listed as the team’s second libero, did not see action.
ProVolley Academy’s top scorer was Samuel Hansen with 10 points. Filipinos Jude Aspero and JR Prospero also shone despite the loss, with Aspero posting five points and 11 excellent receptions, and Prospero recording 11 excellent receptions and five excellent digs.
Kindai University will face top-seeded Criss Cross in what promises to be a tough test on Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
All games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, with video-on-demand available via the Pilipinas Live app. Matches are also streamed on spikersturf.ph.
