San Beda University rookie Angel Habacon showed the way for the red and white to notch their first win in the NCAA Season 99 Women’s Volleyball.

After losing their first two outings of the season against Lyceum of the Philippines University and College of St. Benilde, San Beda was able to secure a victory after surviving San Sebastian College-Recoletos in grueling five sets, 25-17, 25-23, 22-25, 21-25, 15-10.

Habacon exploded with 25 attacks, two blocks, and three aces in a memorable night for the outside hitter from Bislig City, Surigao del Sur.

“Unbelievable po kasi that's my career-high, kaya nung nalaman kong 25 points parang unbelievable para sa akin,” Habacon shared with GMA Regional TV News.

Habacon’s inspired play was made even more memorable with her father flying all the way from Bislig to watch at the stands.

Her volleyball idol, Philippine volleyball star Mika Reyes, was also in the arena, calling the game as a TV analyst and choosing Habacon as the game’s best player.

“Sa interview ko na nalaman na siya pala, nakakahiya naman kasi ina-idolize ko siya tapos parang nakaka inspire din na ganahan pa namin sa next namin na game and mas galingan pa,” she said.

Habacon also received high praise from her coach for leading the team despite some errors made when San Sebastian was on a run.

“Medyo may mga errors pa siya pero ang napansin ko sa kaniya kanina talagang kino-control din niya yung game niya… siya pa rin yung nagdala ng team, kung paano niya dinala yan siguro dahil sa kanilang samahan na parang mga magkakapatid,” San Beda Coach Edgar Barroga stated.

Habacon was subbed-out in the middle of fourth set by Coach Edgar Barroga when San Sebastian was making a rally.

“To be honest, I was a bit stiff kasi nakakapagod na parang I need to breathe, I need to calm down myself para makabalik ulit sa game,” Habacon said.

But it was no big deal for the Lady Red Spikers’ prized rookie as she made some clutch plays in the final set to give San Beda its maiden win.

“Si coach kasi, alam niya talaga yung players niya kaya alam niya kung kailan i-sub-out o kailan ibabalik. Coach is very wise, very strategic na pina-upo niya ako para ma-realize ko mga mistakes ko, kailangan ko i-adjust yung mga galaw ko,” she said.

San Beda will face Arellano University next on Friday, April 19, 2024, as they gun for back-to-back victories and keep their momentum.