PVL: Jaja Maraguinot signs with Akari for pro debut

FILE–Former Ateneo setter Jaja Maraguinot. UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Jaja Maraguinot joins her elder sister, Jho, and teammate Dani Ravena at Akari as she makes her pro debut in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference in October.

The Power Chargers welcomed their sixth player, the former Ateneo setter, on Friday, saying the consistency of her sets during the tryouts was one of the many reasons why they signed her.

“The consistency (in height and speed) of her sets in the tryouts is just one of the many reasons why it’s a no-brainer to get her signed by Akari. Time to shine brighter, Jaja Maraguinot!” Akari posted.

The younger Maraguinot bid farewell to the Blue Eagles during their fans’ day last June 25, saying she will take on new opportunities.

The 21-year-old playmaker only played two full UAAP seasons, winning a championship in her rookie year in Season 81 last 2019 before her sophomore season was cut short after two games due to the pandemic.

Maraguinot was Season 84’s No.4 best setter in the elimination round, averaging 4.49 excellent sets per frame and helping Ateneo reach the last phase of the stepladder semifinals after winning three knockout games.

Jaja is teaming up with Jho for the first time since UAAP Season 82. She is also set to work with former La Salle setter Michelle Cobb in executing the plays of their Brazilian head coach Jorge Souza de Brito.

The young playmaker and Ravena are set to go up against their college coach Oliver Almadro, who calls the shots for Choco Much  led by their ex-teammates Kat Tolentino, Deanna Wong, and Bea De Leon, once they make their pro debut.