Opportunity wasn’t supposed to come this quickly for Adrian Villados — but once Criss Cross needed a new floor pilot, he grabbed the moment with both hands and refused to blink.

With star playmaker Ish Polvorosa sidelined by a knee injury, the young Arellano University product has taken command of the offense and helped Criss Cross storm to a 3-0 start in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.

Now, he also owns the very first Player of the Week honor of the season.

Smooth takeover, big-game composure

Villados announced himself immediately with 22 excellent sets in Criss Cross’ opening win over PGJC-Navy, then followed up with another efficient outing against VNS to steer a clean straight-sets victory.

But his defining moment came against dynasty squad Cignal. Facing the league’s benchmark team, Villados dished a conference-best 34 excellent sets and orchestrated a convincing four-set triumph — a statement that Criss Cross remains a title favorite even without its veteran setter.

Pressure? He acknowledges it. But he insists it doesn’t weigh him down.

“Nandiyan ‘yung pressure pero hindi ko iniisip,” Villados said, crediting his coaches and veteran teammates for keeping him steady and confident in the role.

Eyes forward: momentum building, polish required

Villados edged teammates Jude Garcia, Jaron Requinton and Noel Kampton for the weekly nod, with standout contenders from Cignal, UST-Gameville, Savouge and Alpha Insurance also in the mix.

The King Crunchers now set their sights on Savouge as they chase a fourth straight win. And despite the hot start, the emerging setter knows the job isn’t close to done.

“Marami pa kaming kailangan ayusin,” he said, pointing to lapses in their match against Cignal. “One point at a time. Training lang palagi.”

A sudden promotion, three straight wins, and a spotlight handled with maturity — Villados isn’t just filling in.
He’s thriving.