UST's Josh Ybañez during a game in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference. PVL Media
MANILA -- The University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers are holding their own among professional teams in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, thanks in part to the all-around brilliance of star spiker Josh Ybañez.
The Golden Spikers joined the tournament as a late replacement, but have already put together a 3-1 win-loss record.
Leading the way is Ybañez, who has shone on both ends of the floor for UST.
The Alas Pilipinas standout showcased his offensive and defensive prowess when the Golden Spikers survived a grueling five-set thriller over Alpha Insurance Protectors, 26-24, 25-22, 35-37, 19-25, 22-20, last Friday.
READ: Spikers' Turf: Ybañez delivers as UST outlasts Alpha Insurance in marathon
Ybañez tallied 20 points built on 18 attacks, one block, and one ace, while also contributing 30 excellent receptions in the marathon match.
For his stellar all-around play, Ybañez earned a well-deserved recognition as the Spikers' Turf Press Corps Player of the Week powered by Pilipinas Live for the period of November 5 to 7.
"Of course, I'm always proud sa mga teammates ko. I'm so happy na we ended up getting the result that we want," said Ybañez. "Gusto lang namin manalo, and sa kanila [sa team] naman siguro… kailangan pa namin mag-ensayo ng maayos pa."
Ybañez was a unanimous choice for the weekly honor, beating out his UST-Gameville teammates Al-Bukharie Sali and Edriel Alabar in deliberations by print and online reporters covering the pioneering men's volleyball league organized by Sports Vision.
Also considered for the award were Cignal's Jay Rack Dela Noche, Criss Cross' Jude Garcia and Noel Kampton, and Savouge's Sherwin Caritativo.
The Golden Spikers will next face defending champion Cignal HD Spikers on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.
UST will have compete without their star spiker soon, however, as Ybañez is set to join the national team in its training for the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
Still, the two-time UAAP MVP remains grateful for every chance to suit up as an attacker for UST-Gameville before returning to his natural position as libero with the national squad.
"Next week, mag-start na kami ng training. So, I'm making the most of it, sa spiker era ko, and balik na kasi ako sa pagiging libero. Ine-enjoy ko lang yung time na pumapalo pa ako," he said.