Jude Garcia claimed the first Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week award of the 2025 season after driving Criss Cross through a demanding slate in mid-November. The recognition, announced for the period of Nov. 12 to 16, underscored his role as the team’s primary stabilizer in high-pressure outings.

Over the week, the former three-time MVP delivered an average of 21.7 points and 7.0 digs, providing impact in both scoring and floor coverage. His performance cemented Criss Cross’ control of the Invitational Conference’s early phase and eliminated multiple squads from semifinal contention.

Garcia’s numbers anchor crucial week

Garcia opened the stretch with a strong showing against FEU-DN Steel, firing 24 points and nine digs in a tight five-setter that kept Criss Cross in command late. He followed it with 19 points and six digs as the King Crunchers handled UST-Gameville in straight sets, placing another contender on the brink.

He closed his run with 22 points and eight digs in a four-set win over Alpha Insurance, rounding out a week marked by balanced production and timely execution. His versatility helped shape every match’s momentum and carried Criss Cross to another spotless start.

Motivation high as Criss Cross enters semis

Garcia said the team views its early success as a platform for a deeper postseason push. He emphasized the work that went into reaching this stretch and noted that the group intends to bring its current confidence into the semifinals.

He topped teammates Noel Kampton and Adrian Villados, UST-Gameville’s Edriel Alabar and Cignal’s Louie Ramirez for the weekly citation. The selection was made by print and online reporters covering the men’s league.

Criss Cross now prepares for a round-robin semifinals phase that includes visiting squads Kindai University of Japan and ProVolley Academy of Australia, both adding international weight to the upcoming battles.