ZUS Coffee showcased its growing reputation as the league’s most dominant force after roaring back from two sets down to dump Akari in a thrilling 23-25, 22-25, 25-23, 25-12, 15-7 comeback win in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday, November 4.

With their unbeaten record on the line, the Thunderbelles shook off a shaky opening, steadied behind superior composure, and unleashed a furious turnaround that left the Chargers reeling. From the third set onward, ZUS Coffee seized full control and never let go, closing the prelims at a flawless 5-0 slate.

Import ace Anna DeBeer delivered a masterclass, erupting for 33 points while anchoring the floor with 12 excellent receptions. “We didn’t start well, but we found our rhythm and trusted each other,” she said. “That makes this win special.”

Thunderbelles ignite massive comeback

ZUS Coffee’s depth shined once momentum shifted. Jovelyn Gonzaga and Riza Nogales tallied 11 points each, while Chinnie Arroyo added 10. AC Miner chipped in seven, including well-timed quick attacks that punished Akari’s late defensive collapse.

Setter Cloanne Mondonedo orchestrated the uprising with 27 excellent sets, manipulating tempo and spacing that unlocked every scoring lane. Her decision-making and poise under pressure turned the match, allowing ZUS Coffee to attack from all angles.

The breakthrough also mirrored their preseason five-set escape against Akari in the PVL On Tour, only this time with a far more imposing presence and complete system on display.

Akari fades as ZUS Coffee surges

Akari import Annie Mitchem fired 27 points and Eli Soyud added 15, but the Chargers unraveled once ZUS Coffee hit full stride. Their 32 unforced errors loomed large against the Thunderbelles’ efficiency and superior defensive stability.

ZUS Coffee’s physicality and discipline took over in Set 4, setting the tone for a commanding finish in the decider where DeBeer, Nogales, and Gonzaga delivered dagger plays that sealed the comeback.

Coach Jerry Yee credited sharp adjustments and execution. “Nag-adjust kami sa kung ano ang binibigay ng kalaban at maayos naming na-execute,” he said.

Akari still advances as the No. 3 seed via sets ratio tiebreak over Petro Gazz, with both squads finishing 3-2.

With poise, firepower, and growing swagger, ZUS Coffee marches into the next phase as the clear favorite — a squad armed not only with talent but with the grit and belief required to chase a title.