Gonzaga powers Thunderbelles to Davao Invitational crown

MANILA – Guimaras-born spiker Jovelyn Gonzaga spearheaded ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles to their breakthrough championship as they dethroned powerhouse De La Salle University Lady Spikers, 25-17, 25-19, 23-25, 25-23, in the finals of the 2025 Davao Invitational Volleyball Tournament on Sunday night at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

The former Central Philippine University Golden Lions standout delivered a stellar all-around performance that earned her the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and Best Opposite Hitter awards. “Big or pocket tournaments, if it’s hard-earned, it’s worth celebrating!” the Thunderbelles declared in a social media post.

It was a dream campaign for the Jerry Yee-coached squad, which swept all four of its matches in the week-long tilt while dropping just one set en route to the gold. Team captain Cloanne Mondoñedo bagged the Best Setter plum, Chinnie Arroyo was named Best Outside Hitter, and rookie Mycah Go picked up Best Server honors, underscoring ZUS Coffee’s depth.

The championship run marked a major confidence boost for the Thunderbelles, who struggled in the recent Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference but now head into the next conference with momentum.

La Salle still showcased individual brilliance as UAAP Best Libero Lyka de Leon once again claimed the same award in Davao, while teammate Lilay del Castillo was recognized as Best Middle Blocker.

Meanwhile, Farm Fresh Foxies rallied to secure the bronze medal with an 18-25, 25-20, 25-14, 25-21 victory over the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers, highlighted by the return of Frances Xinia Molina and Marivic Meneses, who last played in January with the Cignal HD Spikers./PN