UAAP volleyball: Barbie Jamili stars in triumphant Adamson debut

Adamson’s Barbie Jamili during a game against UE in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — After being benched in the first three games, Barbie Jamili proved her worth in her debut for the Adamson Lady Falcons in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.

Jamili made the most of her first start as she poured in a team-high 20 points to lead Adamson past University of the East, 25-19, 25-19, 26-28, 29-27, for their second win on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.

The transferee from Far Eastern University admitted she felt nervous about her longer playing time after Lucille Almonte only played a set but she seized the moment regardless.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball first round

“I was glad and nervous at the same time because it was my first time to play again,” said Jamili in Filipino after nailing 18 attacks and two blocks on top of 12 digs.

“I’m thankful to coach because he gave me a chance to play for the team. They’re patient with me.”

Jamili had to wait for three games before her UAAP debut, coming off a one-year residency but she remained patient until finally getting the opportunity to play for the Lady Falcons.

“I remained patient with myself and waited for my time to come,” she said.

Adamson coach JP Yude, who tried to give Jamili a longer playing time in lieu of Almonte, praised the outside spiker after repaying his trust with a breakout game.

“Barbie played very well because after our game against NU we wanted to try small a lineup then I talked to them to be more aggressive and worked on their passing and service receive because the attacking skills are already there,” Yude said. “I asked them to be braver because once they became nervous it would affect their game. Good job for them for showing their best game so far.”

Adamson eyes its first winning streak of the season against Far Eastern University on March 9 on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.