PVL: Nicole Tiamzon takes spotlight in Petro Gazz opening win

MANILA, Philippines — Nicole Tiamzon shone in Petro Gazz’s first Premier Volleyball League (PVL) game under Japanese coach Koji Tsuzurabara, who wants his players to always have the “challenger’s” mindset.

All eyes were on Brooke Van Sickle after an MVP and title run in the PNVF Champions League but Tiamzon proved she could lead the Angels, who swept the debuting Strong Group Athletics, 25-12, 25-20, 25-12, in the All-Filipino Conference opener on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.

Tiamzon poured in 15 points, hitting 13 of her 27 attack attempts and firing two aces to give the new-look Petro Gazz a winning start.

SCHEDULE: PVL All-Filipino Conference 2024

“It’s new but exciting and very challenging because we’re not used to this kind of system. But it’s good to learn from a foreign coach as well,” said Tiamzon. “He’s gonna push you and we’re thankful to him because he’s been sharing his experience with the team.”

The University of the Philippines product, who had limited action for the Angels last season, made the most of her extended playing time after starting outside spiker Jonah Sabete sat out in their first game with KC Galdones and Chie Saet.

“Very thankful for the opportunity also to play, I’m trying to get back on track also playing inside the court for straight sets,” said Tiamzon. “We’re trying to find our chemistry also, it’s our first game so we still have a lot of errors. And tomorrow, we’re going back to training and we’ll fix everything.”

Petro Gazz will be tested next week against last year’s runner-up Choco Mucho.

Tiamzon vows to stay ready for the Angels whatever her role will be for Tsuzurabara for the remainder of the conference.

“I learned from our coach to always have the mindset of being the challenger,” Tiamzon said. “We will prepare, train and train, and study our opponent. Looking forward to [it].”