Gia Day powers Angels past Hip Hing into AVC quarterfinal round

With their tournament hopes hanging in the balance, Petro Gazz turned to their dependable American import—and Gia Day delivered.

Day erupted for 18 points, powering the Angels to a decisive 25-8, 25-12, 25-12 victory over Hong Kong’s Hip Hing on Tuesday, April 22, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. 

Her dominant all-around performance not only lifted Petro Gazz to its first win in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League but also sealed the last spot in the quarterfinals.

Steady and explosive from start to finish, Day was a force at the net and on defense, adding eight digs and three receptions to her offensive haul. Her presence set the tone for the Angels, who bounced back from a tough loss to Kaohsiung Taipower just a day earlier.

“I think this was a great game to find our rhythm as a team, to have fun, and enjoy each other’s play." Day said after the match. "We really just enjoyed every point, and that was the difference between today and yesterday. We could have given ourselves so much pressure, but we decided to really have fun."

Petro Gazz’s energy shift was palpable. Head coach Koji Tsuzurabara noted a marked improvement in the team’s chemistry. 

“They [Gia Day and Brooke Van Sickle] also were good. I think maybe, 70 percent more towards the setter. Yesterday’s game, maybe 5 percent. But today’s better than yesterday,” Tsuzurabara shared.

Supported by MJ Phillips with nine points and Brooke Van Sickle with eight, Day spearheaded a Petro Gazz offense that outclassed Hip Hing in every department. The Angels dominated the attack battle 46-9, dismantling the visitors' defense with their pace and precision.

With the win, Petro Gazz (1-1) advances to face Chinese club Beijing Baic Motor—undefeated in its pool—in a quarterfinal showdown on Thursday, April 24, at 7:00 PM.