Like the legendary Michael Jordan, Vanie Gandler played through illness on Tuesday and still powered the Cignal Super Spikers to a hard-earned 25-17, 26-24, 20-25, 30-28 victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Gandler later revealed that she had visited the hospital a day before the match due to gastroenteritis. Despite the setback, she recovered in time to deliver one of her strongest performances of the conference so far, finishing with 25 points while adding 14 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions.
“Right after practice yesterday, I went to the clinic to get meds. My number one priority was to be able to eat so that I have enough energy today. I just took the meds, I rested, and thankfully I was able to play,” she shared after the match.
Gandler Isn’t Too Concerned with Numbers
Gandler’s focus, however, was never on the numbers.
“I just think of any way I can contribute to the team. So, if I’m in the front row, with scoring, and back row, defense. I don’t really think of the stats. It’s just where else I can help with the team to get this win.”
With the victory, Cignal improved to 3-0 and took solo control of the standings. For Gandler, the unbeaten start reflects the collective effort behind the scenes.
“I’m really proud of my team because we work really hard and we really try our best to apply everything that’s taught to us. We still have many lapses, many things to work on, but I’m very happy with how we’re willing to learn and improve each training,” she said.
“I think it’s just the experiences that I’ve had and, of course, the environments that I have to always improve. My improvement is because of the help of my teammates, my coaches. So, yeah, I’m grateful for everything that they teach me and that my teammates give me confidence every time.”
Cignal looks to extend its winning streak when it faces the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles on Tuesday, February 17, at 6:30 p.m. at the FilOil Centre.
