Jovelyn Gonzaga urges back-to-basics approach after powering ZUS Coffee to first PVL victory

The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles finally found their breakthrough in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, snapping a two-game skid with a hard-earned five-set victory over the Akari Chargers, 16-25, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23, 15-12, on Thursday, February 12, at the Fil Oil Playtime Centre in San Juan.

In a match that tested both resolve and composure, the Thunderbelles leaned on veteran leadership and timely execution to outlast the Chargers in a gripping contest that stretched to a deciding fifth set. After dropping the opening frame, ZUS Coffee responded with renewed energy in the second set before surrendering the third. Facing the prospect of a third straight defeat to open the conference, the Thunderbelles dug deep in the fourth, edging out Akari in a tight 25-23 finish to force a decider.

From there, experience proved decisive.

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Veteran hitter Jovelyn Gonzaga delivered when it mattered most, anchoring the team in crucial stretches of the fifth set. She finished with 14 points built on a well-rounded performance that included two blocks and two service aces, while providing steady leadership during momentum swings. Time and again, Gonzaga calmed her teammates during high-pressure rallies, helping the Thunderbelles stay composed down the stretch.

Chinnie Arroyo led all ZUS Coffee scorers with 18 points, consistently finding ways to break through Akari’s defensive wall. Middle blocker Risa Nogales contributed 10 markers, while Thea Gagate chipped in nine, including key conversions that kept the team within striking distance in the fourth set. The balanced scoring effort underscored the team-first mentality that the coaching staff had emphasized following their slow start to the conference.

“Thankful ako sa bawat isa kasi ‘yun nga, sabi ng coaching staff nag-step up talaga bawat isa. More than winning and the trophies, ang importante malagpasan namin ng team kung ano ‘mang pinagdadaanan ngayon. Testament ngayon ‘yung win namin na kahit papaano, unti-unti nakakausad kami,” Gonzaga said in the postmatch press conference.

WATCH: Jov Gonzaga on enduring the challenges this conference. #PVL2026 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/3Z3AVfmMN6

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) February 12, 2026

For Gonzaga, the victory represented more than just a mark in the win column. The 34-year-old admitted that heightened expectations following their silver-medal finish in the 2025 Reinforced Conference had weighed heavily on the squad. Entering the All-Filipino Conference with momentum and confidence, the Thunderbelles instead stumbled out of the gates, absorbing two straight losses that forced them to reassess their mindset.

Compounding the challenge has been the absence of reigning Rookie of the Year AC Miner, who has yet to suit up due to a recurring shin injury. The team has also had to adjust to life without head coach Jerry Yee on the sidelines, as he is expected to be away for at least a month due to health reasons. With key figures unavailable, the Thunderbelles have been compelled to rely on internal growth and collective accountability.

“Ang daming uncertainties na nangyari. Pressure siya, which is naging blinded kami sa realidad na nag-set kami ng standard. Hinumble kami, binalik kami sa zero. I-delete muna lahat ng nangyari – achievements, trophies. Balik muna kami sa basic – paano kami nagsimula at saan kami nanggaling – para makapagsimula muli as a team,” she added.

The win serves as an early statement that ZUS Coffee remains a formidable contender despite adversity. More importantly, it signals a renewed focus on fundamentals and cohesion rather than external expectations.

With their campaign now back on track, the Thunderbelles face an even sterner test as they prepare to take on league powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers on Tuesday, February 17, at the FilOil Centre. The upcoming showdown offers ZUS Coffee an opportunity to measure its progress against one of the conference favorites — and to prove that Thursday’s breakthrough was not merely a momentary spark, but the beginning of a steady climb in the standings.

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