Stepping in as a replacement team, UST proved it belonged, coming through with an impressive 25-22, 25-17, 25-21 victory over PGJC-Navy in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.
Joshua Ybañez turned in a sensational performance, erupting for 16 points built on 10 attacks, four aces, and two kill blocks, as the Golden Spikers – who took over the slot vacated by De La Salle University following its withdrawal due to academic commitments – cleared their first hurdle in the Spikers’ Turf tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Beyond his offensive brilliance, Ybañez also anchored UST’s floor defense with 16 excellent receptions and four digs, showcasing a superb all-around effort befitting a senior leader. His composure and maturity, honed from his recent stint with Alas Pilipinas, provided the steadying presence the Golden Spikers needed in their league debut.
Despite committing 30 errors, the España-based squad made up for these by dominating all scoring categories – outgunning PGJC-Navy in attacks (43-28), blocks (7-1), and aces (6-1) – to complete the one-hour, 21-minute sweep.
“Buti walang opening-game jitters, pero we have lots of things to polish pa. Of course masaya ako kasi confidence boosting ito,” said UST head coach Odjie Mamon.
The victory is expected to boost the Golden Spikers’ confidence heading into their next assignment.
“We have a game this Friday against Savouge, at least going to that game nanalo kami so medyo mataas ang morale. Ang problema ko lang is ‘yung short time to prepare, so tomorrow we’ll do more recovery exercises,” added Mamon.
Dux Yambao dished out 21 excellent sets and finished with five points while Al-Bukharie Sali added 10 points and Trevor Valera chipped in eight markers.
The Golden Spikers and the Spin Doctors will clash at 4 p.m.
On the other hand, Greg Dolor scored nine points on eight attacks and one block, while Bonjomar Castel added six markers for the Sealions, who dropped their second straight game.
Joeven Dela Vega struggled for two points coming off a long absence due to health concerns.
The Sealions will try to snap an early skid when they go up against Far Eastern University-DN Steel, also on Friday at 2 p.m.
Games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, as well as through the Pilipinas Live app, which offers video-on-demand options. Games will also be streamed via spikersturf.ph.
