Kobe Shinwa University defeats Zus Coffee 3-0 in PVL Invitational

Kobe Shinwa University made a strong debut in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational on Saturday, defeating Zus Coffee in straight sets at the PhilSports Arena.

The Japanese team won convincingly with scores of 25-14, 27-25, and 25-17 despite Zus Coffee playing without several key players including captain Cloanne Mondonedo.

Sakura Furuta led Kobe Shinwa's offense with 18 excellent sets, while Nagisa Komatsuda scored a team-high 15 points and added eight digs.

Zus Coffee struggled to field a full squad due to the withdrawal of Kurashiki Ablaze from the tournament and uncertainty over whether their top players will participate in future matches.

Former top pick Thea Gagate may see action for Zus Coffee if she is cleared by owner Frank Lao, who fielded the Thunderbelles last-minute after Kurashiki's departure.