The newest additions to the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles wasted no time making their presence felt.
Behind strong performances from offseason recruits Zam Nolasco and Jolina Dela Cruz, the Thunderbelles took down the Akari Chargers, 25-11, 25-23, 26-28, 25-17, to start their 2026 PVL On Tour campaign on Wednesday at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.
Zam Nolasco, Jolina Dela Cruz Impress for Zus Coffee
Nolasco delivered an impressive debut for ZUS Coffee, finishing with 15 points built on 11 attacks and 4 blocks as she made her return to the professional stage.
The reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player last played in the PVL in 2023 before completing her collegiate career with College of Saint Benilde.
“Sobrang gaan lang din po sila makasama sa loob ng court, which is naging helpful din siya sa akin as a rookie sa team,” said Nolasco.
“Ayun po, mababait yung ates and coaches. Familiar na rin kami sa program, sa system, sa players, wala naman pong sobrang adjustments. Kinikeep ko lang po kung paano ako maglaro,” she added.
Dela Cruz also made an immediate impact in her first game with the Thunderbelles, producing 12 points and 13 excellent receptions after spending the past two seasons with the Farm Fresh Foxies.
Thunderbelles Dominate Behind Balanced Attack
Zus Coffee dominated early and moved within a set of completing a sweep, but Akari extended the match after escaping the third frame.
The Thunderbelles made sure there would be no comeback in the fourth set.
Holding a narrow 18-17 advantage, Zus Coffee closed the match with seven unanswered points as Nolasco, Dela Cruz, and veteran Rachel Anne Daquis delivered the finishing blows.
AC Miner also impressed in her return from a shin injury that sidelined her during the All-Filipino Conference, adjusting to her new role as an opposite hitter with 15 points and 10 excellent digs.
Daquis added 11 points, while Kate Santiago and Riza Nogales contributed 7 and 6 points, respectively.
Cloanne Mondoñedo directed the Thunderbelles’ offense with 21 excellent sets.
Meanwhile, Eli Soyud carried Akari with 16 points as the lone Charger in double figures.
Ivy Lacsina chipped in nine markers, while Sharya Ancheta, Chen Tagaod, and Jamaica Villena finished with eight points each.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Zus Coffee will try to continue its strong start when it faces the Choco Mucho Flying Titans on Saturday, July 11, in Batangas.
Akari, on the other hand, will look to recover against Choco Mucho on August 1 in Polomolok, South Cotabato.
