Thea Gagate scores in AVC Challenge Cup, aims for semifinals

Thea Gagate has been instrumental in helping Alas Pilipinas win its first two games in the AVC Challenge Cup, expressing pride and gratitude for representing the country.

Gagate scored 12 points against India on Friday and added 11 points against Australia on Thursday, highlighting the challenge of competing against taller international players while emphasizing her commitment to showcasing her best performance.

Setter Jia De Guzman played a crucial role in maintaining team cohesion despite limited preparation time, praised by Gagate for her communication skills within the court.

Gagate also underscored the importance of her sisterhood with teammates from La Salle and other teams she has trained with previously, noting special connections like that with starting libero Dawn Macandili-Catindig.

Alas Pilipinas will face Iran on Saturday at 7 p.m. for a chance to secure a semifinal berth before concluding their Pool A matches against Chinese Taipei.