Graduate Jean gives Highrisers a boost in Cebu
Jean Asis achieved what she set out to do at Far Eastern University and will continue with the pro chapter of her volleyball career carrying the same determination that got her a degree in tourism management while becoming a UAAP force for the Lady Tamaraws.
The second overall pick in the last PVL Draft, Asis flew to Cebu on a gloomy Thursday night—just hours after receiving her diploma—as she tries to give Galeries Towers the boost it needs in wrapping up an On Tour campaign where the Highrisers have been winless so far.
“I’m really looking forward to our game in Cebu, and I hope we can get wins,” Asis told the Inquirer in Filipino after stepping out of the Newport Performing Arts Theater where FEU’s commencement exercises were held.
“I know it won’t be easy, but we’ll do our best,” Asis continued. “I’ll focus on making up for the lapses I had in our past games.”
Asis rejoined a team that is 0-3 and will be playing for nothing more but pride—and additional knowledge and experience—in two games in the Queen City of the South where they play Farm Fresh on Saturday at USJ-R Coliseum.
With veteran teammates Ysa Jimenez, France Ronquillo, Ivy Perez, Roselle Baliton and sophomore Jewel Encarnacion, Asis seeks to be the key for the Highrisers in stopping the Foxies, who won two consecutive games after losing the opener to PLDT.
Farm Fresh will be bannered by Trisha Tubu and Jolina Dela Cruz in the 6:30 p.m. game.
The 5-foot-10 middle blocker relished her blessings at the Far Eastern and is seeking to be the best player she can be in her postcollegiate career.
And after three games, she’s getting the hang of it.
“[I am learning] a lot, like making in-game adjustments since it’s my first time playing against pro teams,” she went on. “I also think I can improve on showing more leadership on the court, even as a rookie.”
Galeries is no longer in contention for the two outright quarterfinal berths in Pool A, but Asis and the Highrisers are determined to finish strong in Cebu and barge into the win column to gain momentum before the knockout round.
PLDT and Nxled, who both won their first three games, clash for an outright quarterfinal berth at 4 p.m.
The High Speed Hitters parade their returning leading scorer in Savi Davison together with Kianna Dy, Kim Fajardo, Majoy Baron, Mika Reyes and Kath Arado.
