GS Caltex secured a spot in the V-League women’s finals after defeating Korea Expressway Hi-Pass 3-1 in the decisive third game of the playoffs at Seoul’s Jangchung Gymnasium on April 5.
Playoff Thriller Unfolds
The match unfolded with GS Caltex dominating early, taking the first set 25-15. Korea Expressway fought back to claim the second 25-19, but GS Caltex rallied to win the third 25-20 and sealed the victory in the fourth 25-20. This triumph marks their first finals appearance in five years, since the 2020-2021 season.
Before tip-off, GS Caltex foreign setter Silba’s husband and six-year-old daughter participated in a ceremonial pitch-in, cheering the team to an undefeated run through the regular season’s third place and playoff sweeps.
Silba’s Unstoppable Attack
Despite facing intense blocking, Silba delivered explosive spikes and six aces, proving her resilience. Her attack success rate reached an impressive 43.03%, the highest despite enduring the most blocks. Over 36 games this season, she shattered career highs, including 1,083 dunks—topping the league and surpassing her three-year entry average.
In the championship series alone, Silba amassed 30 dunks across six games, with a 47.89% success rate. She earned MVP honors, converting 33 of 34 attacks (97%) in key moments, including stubs.
Team Depth Shines
GS Caltex’s success extends beyond Silba, with domestic stars like Kwon Min-ji and Yoo Seo-yeon contributing solid performances. Setter An Hye-jin’s accurate sets boosted the team’s offense. Even Korea Expressway’s foreign reinforcement Moma Basoko struggled, managing only 18 dunks at a 28% rate.
The team’s atmosphere remains upbeat. Silba told fans chanting for her re-signing, “This isn’t my decision alone.” GS Caltex club chairman Heo Se-hoong responded, “We’ve recorded her activity,” fueling speculation about her future.
