PVL: Jonah Sabete thrives for Petro Gazz despite change of role
MANILA, Philippines — Jonah Sabete had no idea she would play as an opposite spiker for Petro Gazz’s big game against PLDT in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
“She had no idea [she’ll play] opposite. Only as a sub [for] Myla (Pablo),” said Petro Gazz coach Koji Tsuzurabara.
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But Sabete proved to be ready and reliable for Petro Gazz, pouring in 17 points despite not playing her natural position in their 12-25, 25-14, 25-22, 25-20 win over PLDT on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.
READ: PVL: Petro Gazz scores tough sweep of struggling Akari
Jonah Sabete on shining as an opposite spiker. #PVL2025 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/kBXiWB8u3w
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) December 10, 2024
“Actually, sa training open e. Lagi naman sinasabi nila na ready always kasi hindi alam kung ano yung position na ilalagay. Kahit dati pa naman ganun pa rin kung saan man ilagay magpe-perform pa rin ako,” said Sabete, who subbed in for Aiza Maizo-Pontillas.
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Tsuzurabara’s sudden adjustment paid off as Sabete helped the Angels recover from a 13-point loss in the opening set and win the next three.
“In the second set, Jonah on the court, she changed the atmosphere,” said the Japanese coach.
Her solid game connived with Brooke Van Sickle’s 21 points, 12 digs, and eight excellent receptions as well as Myla Pablo’s continuous resurgence with 19 points to lead Petro Gazz to their third straight win for a 4-1 record.
Sabete, whose playing time was reduced in their first few games and in the Reinforced due to a left calf injury, just took the trust of Tsuzurabara and her teammates as a challenge and boost to thrive in a different position.
READ: PVL: Cheers from Ilocano fans fuel Myla Pablo in Petro Gazz win
“Tiwala na lang sa sarili at saka ang laki din ng impact ng coaching staff: You can do it we know you. Kailangan ka namin, ganito ka, palaban ka,” she said. “Na-boost yung confidence ko kahit minsan pa off andyan pa rin naman sila to guide me. Sinasabi nga nila paluin mo lang bahala ka mablock, cocover kami. Happy naman na naging ganito performance ko.”
The veteran wing spiker also used her familiarity against longtime PVL competitor PLDT, which is handled by their former coaches Rald Ricafort and Arnold Laniog.
“Sobrang tagal na namin kalaban yung PLDT so parang kahit papaano medyo gamay na din kasi you know din naman sa coaching staff nila [galing] sa Petro so hindi din talaga sila papatalo sa defense,” Sabete said. “Naisip ko lang na papaluin ko lang to babasahin ko lang yung blockers.”
Petro Gazz closes out the year against unbeaten Cignal (4-0) on Saturday at the same venue in Pasig City.