Valdez powers Smart past Army and into V-League Finals

MANILA, Philippines – Alyssa Valdez led Smart with 24 points as the Net Spikers edged Philippine Army, 21-25, 25-20, 25-13, 21-25, 15-10, in a thriller to secure the last Finals slot in the Shakey’s V-League Season 10 Open Conference Sunday at the Filoil Flying V Arena in san Juan.

Smart arranged a best-of-three championship duel with powerhouse Cagayan, which has yet to be beaten in 14 games. Game 1 is on Tuesday also at the Arena.

Valdez scored all but one of her 24 points on hits while Thai ace Lithawat Kesinee added 22. Jovelyn Gonzaga paced the Lady Troopers with 17 points.