Gagate lands Japan stint with Airybees

Thea Gagate is taking her talents overseas after signing with Denso Airybees for the 2026–27 Japan S.V. League season, becoming the latest Filipina volleyball player to secure a contract in one of Asia's top professional leagues.

Denso Airybees announced the signing on Friday through its official Instagram account.

"We would like to thank you for your warm support to Denso Airybees. We would like to inform you that we have decided to sign Thea Allison Gagate," the club said.

The 6-foot-2 middle blocker joins a growing list of Filipinos who have played in Japan's top league, including Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, Sachi Minowa, Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Jia De Guzman, Maddie Madayag, and Brian Castro.

Gagate also becomes the third Filipino to suit up for Denso Airybees, following De Guzman and Minowa.

The former collegiate standout is currently in Vietnam with Alas Pilipinas, which is competing in the 2026 SEA V Cup.

Her departure leaves ZUS Coffee with a significant gap to fill in the middle as the Premier Volleyball League season continues.

The Thunderbelles are expected to rely on veterans Zam Nolasco and Riza Nogales, along with rookie Alyanna Ong, to bolster the middle blocker position. Converted opposite hitter AC Miner also gives the team added depth at the net.

ZUS Coffee will conclude its Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour campaign against PLDT on August 8 in Santiago, Isabela.