Alyssa Valdez raves over UST rookie Eya Laure

MANILA, Philippines – There's a saying in the world of sports that goes "game recognizes game," and it serves true for volleyball phenom Alyssa Valdez and UST rookie Eya Laure.

Having seen the younger Laure's skills during the national team tryouts, Valdez praised the España-based athlete in an interview with ABS-CBN Sports & Action's The Score.

"Akala ko ka-batch ko siya," The former Lady Eagle joked.

"Nakita ko sa batang 'yon yung nakikinig talaga [sa coach] and I think that's one of the important things if you're a player," Valdez said.

Laure had already displayed her skills during UST's offseason run in both the PVL Collegiate Conference and the PSL Collegiate Grand Slam. She has the potential to lead the Tigresses once UST veteran Sisi Rondina exits the UAAP.

"I think malayo pa ang mararating ni Eya. Batang-bata pa rin talaga, marami pa siyang ma-e-experience and I hope makapasok siya sa national team," Valdez said.

Laure, whose older sister EJ won't be suiting up for the Tigresses this season, is set to make her UAAP debut on February 17 against the Adamson Soaring Falcons at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Watch Valdez' full comments on Laure here:

"Akala ko ka-batch ko siya."@AlyssaValdez2 believes #UAAPSeason81Volleyball should watch out for UST's Eya Laure ???? pic.twitter.com/hl95YKcUMl

— ABS-CBN Sports (@abscbnsports) February 1, 2019