Golden Tigresses primed to contend for UAAP crown, says Detdet Pepito

MANILA, Philippines – The time is ripe for UST to once again rule the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament.

That is the belief of Golden Tigresses libero Detdet Pepito after snaring the twice-to-beat semifinals bonus with a convincing win over defending champions DLSU Lady Spikers on Saturday night, finishing eliminations as the second seed with a 12-2 slate

Though they headed into the season with no expectations whatsoever, as rookies make up most of Coach Kung Fu Reyes’ roster, the Tigresses have risen from the pack to be among title favorites — especially after the first round of the season when they swept their assignments, 7-0.

Now, with the Final Four at hand, and having the semis bonus, Pepito said that everything is falling into place for the Golden Tigresses.

“Yung component ng team na ‘to, kakaiba eh. Puro bata so kung titignan natin, parang medyo less experienced pa pero alam niyo yun, dito talaga makikita na nagbubunga talaga yung mga pinaghirapan namin sa team,” she said during the post-game press conference on Saturday. 

“And yes, masasabi ko po this is the best chance na talagang mabalik ang [UAAP] crown [to UST].”

Even if they are young on paper, UST’s players — even the rookies — did not shrink under the bright lights of the UAAP. From the start of the season to the crucial stretch of games before the Final Four, the Tigresses have been dangerous.

But even with the achievements so far, Pepito is adamant to keep the Golden Tigresses grounded. Especially after their big win over the Lady Spikers, the defense specialist isn’t keen on getting carried away.

“’Di talaga pwedeng mag-celebrate nang todo-todo [after this win],” said Pepito. 

“Back to trabaho talaga kami and another challenge na naman to na syempre, kailangan namin i-embrace,” she added.

Pepito and the rest of the Golden Tigresses will have a week or so to prepare for La Salle anew as they face each other again in the semis. 

UST will attempt to dethrone the champions in one fell swoop when Game 1 unfurls next weekend.

The Golden Tigresses are gunning for their first UAAP women’s volleyball title since Season 72.