After an illustrious collegiate volleyball career, Jade Gentapa has left an indelible mark on the Lady Blazers with three consecutive NCAA championships and a Finals MVP. As she continues her professional career, let’s take a closer look at the remarkable path that transformed her from a curious rookie into a cornerstone of the Lady Blazers' historic success.
Carving her way through
Jade Gentapa’s love for volleyball began with simple curiosity, a desire to explore something new which blossomed into a deep passion and ultimately ignited her career in the sport. In an exclusive interview with The Benildean, Gentapa shared how her love for volleyball started, “[I just wanted] to try something new in my life so [sinubukan ko ang] volleyball [kahit] hindi ko talaga siya gusto, as in wala lang. Gusto ko lang [subukan] ang volleyball to the point ginawa ko na siyang career.”
In 2018, the Davao City native played her final game for the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP), and without a team at sight moving forward, Gentapa took the opportunity given by her coach, Jerry Yee, to play for the Lady Blazers.
“I'm from TIP Quiapo, [that’s where I played] in Senior High School, Coach Jerry was [my] head coach [during that time] and [tinanong niya ako] if gusto ko ba mag-Benilde then sabi ko okay lang. Then ayun, nandito na ako sa Benilde.”
Despite a great start to her collegiate career, it wasn’t always smiles and laughter for Gentapa. She shared the challenges she had to go through in her first year with the Taft squad, “Rookie pa lang ako sa Benilde gusto ko na mag-quit because of the pressure na binibigay minsan sa ‘kin. Madami akong pinagdaanan, madaming mura ako’ng narinig.” In the midst of setbacks, Gentapa continuously found confidence through her parents, “[Kahit mahirap] nag-stick [lang] ako sa plan ko kung saan ako pwede makatulong sa parents ko. My parents are my motivation.”
In her debut season, despite limited playing time, Gentapa showed glimpses of her potential, and became recognized as a crucial piece for the Lady Blazers’ future.
Gearing for Greatness
After a strong debut in NCAA Season 95, Gentapa and the rest of the Lady Blazers were eager to continue their success in the following season, only to have their momentum halted due to the pandemic. After a two-year layoff, the NCAA reopened its doors in Season 97. With most of the players of the Season 95 team having graduated and moved forward with their careers, Gentapa and including the likes of Mycah Go, Mich Gamit, Cloanne Mondonedo, and Gayle Pascual were viewed as the core players of the team.
In Season 97, Gentapa emerged as a top scorer for the Lady Blazers, averaging 10.5 points per game and leading the team to the finals and a championship. She steadily improved to 11.5 points per game in Season 98 and was named Finals MVP with 16.5 points per game, securing the team’s second consecutive title. In her final year, despite reduced playing time due to the uprise of her teammates, Gentapa made crucial contributions, helping the Lady Blazers win their third straight championship.
When asked about the most memorable moment in her career, Gentapa shared “[For me] all of the seasons ay memorable [naman], ang mas masaya ay ‘yung pagpasok ko ng Benilde, champion, gagraduate din ng champion.”
Beyond the titles, the Lady Blazers achieved an extraordinary milestone by remaining undefeated for the past four seasons, with a remarkable 40-0 record in the NCAA. Gentapa attributes this success to the collective efforts and dedication of the entire team. “[That’s the] result of our hard work and teamwork.”
Forging strength and resilience
Amid a historic run, Gentapa maintained her role as a student as her top priority, crediting time management and discipline as key factors in balancing academics and athletics. When asked how she managed to juggle the demands of her academic workload while playing for Benilde, she highlighted the importance of setting priorities and sticking to a well-structured schedule.
"Time management and discipline are crucial, [you have to know when to focus on your studies and when to give your best on the court],” she emphasized.
Gentapa also expressed her gratitude towards Benilde and the Center for Sports Development (CSD) for their unwavering support throughout her collegiate career. "[I also want to thank] CSD for helping me through my academic problems, [thank you] for all the advice," she shared. The guidance and resources provided by CSD played a significant role in ensuring that she could excel both as a student and an athlete.
Polished to perfection
Gentapa’s journey with the Lady Blazers is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and teamwork, leaving a long lasting impact on the team. Her rise from a pressured-packed rookie to a key player in the Lady Blazers’ historic reign highlights her ability to overcome challenges and elevate her team. Beyond the accolades and championships, Gentapa’s story is an inspiration, demonstrating that true success in sports comes from dedication, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in oneself.
As she looks back on her journey, Gentapa has a heartfelt message for the Benildean community, "Thank you Benildean community for always supporting us. I hope napasaya namin kayo, and [hope] you guys continue to support the next Lady Blazers."
Looking ahead to the future, Gentapa offers words of wisdom to the remaining Lady Blazers as they prepare for the centennial season, "Always go back to the basics and always do your best." Her advice reflects the importance of maintaining a strong foundation and giving their all, both on and off the court.
As she bids farewell to her collegiate career, Gentapa leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of Lady Blazers. Her journey, marked by both triumphs and trials, is a reminder that greatness is achieved not just by winning titles but by the character and determination displayed along the way.
