Alyssa Valdez unloaded 25 points to lead PLDT Home Ultera to a thrilling 16-25, 20-25, 26-24, 29-27, 18-16 victory over Army Saturday and inched one win closer to the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference title.
Valdez, who was reported on social media to have been barred by her school from playing, suited up to deliver 22 attacks, two aces and one block for the Ultra Fast Hitters at Filoil Flying V Arena.
They can wrap up the title in Game 2 of the best-of-three title series on Dec. 6.
“She’s an integral part of this team and she showed it in this game,” said Gorayeb of his prized player who was crowned MVP in Collegiate and Open conferences. “We’re still having a hard time adjusting with our imports and vice versa.”
PLDT Imports Victoria Hurtt scored eight points while Sareea Freeman had five markers but they were both on the bench when the Ultra Fast Hitters were clawing their way back from a 0-2 hole.
The imports were having getting in synch with setter Rubie de Leon, prompting the team to rely on the 23-year-old Valdez, who is in the thick of preparation for her last tour of duty for Ateneo in the UAAP.
“I have played with them many times and although this is my first game I knew how each one of us play,” said Valdez.