By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Jia Morado De Guzman, arguably the smartest setter in her generation, is taking her talents to the Japan V. League after signing with the Denso Airybees.
The team confirmed the development on its website on Thursday, Sept. 7, where De Guzman is also joining fellow acquisition Rosamaria Montibeller of Brazil.
“Thank you for your warm support for Denso Airybees. We would like to inform you that it has been decided that Rosamaria Montibeller and Julia Melissa Morado will join the team,” the announcement read, as translated in English.
De Guzman becomes the latest Filipino to sign in a V.League club following Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Jaja Santiago for JT Marvelous, and Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo in Oita Miyoshi.
Creamline, which has been home for De Guzman for the last six year, expressed its support for the talented setter in a social media post.
“Sa nag-iisang JIA, as you begin a new chapter in Japan, we send you love and good vibes,” the post read.
“We are always proud of you, and will always have your back, Ate Jia! Looking forward to seeing your Pambansang Good Vibe moves on the court!”
Since her collegiate stint with Ateneo in the UAAP, the 28-year-old De Guzman has only played with the Creamline Cool Smashers.
She was also part of the national team.
De Guzman is expected to help the team improve its previous finish of sixth in the 2022-23 season with a 14-19 win-loss record.
