Former University of Santo Tomas team captain Eya Laure is proud of the Golden Tigresses' impressive run in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 86 women's volleyball tournament.

Laure, who turned professional last year with Chery Tiggo in the Premier Volleyball League, lauded her top-seed ex-teammates not parading an immaculate 8-0 win-loss slate.

"Of course, I'm very happy with my babies. I'm telling you, they may be 'Mini Miss U' but their hearts are really big," Laure said after the Crossovers survived in five sets Petro Gazz in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

What made the day even more special was the celebration of her birthday.

The 25-year-old skipper ended her 12-year stint with the Golden Tigresses after finishing fourth in Season 85.

"I'm happy with the 'post-Eya Laure' era that they're talking about because as what I was saying (back then), even if I leave, they (teammates) will show that they can fight," she said.

Team captain and libero Detdet Pepito, and her sophomore teammates Regina Jurado, Jonna Perdido, and Cassie Carballo are exceeding expectations after upsetting defending champions De La Salle University and title contender National University in the first round.

Freshman outside hitter Angge Poyos, meanwhile, is making a name for herself by leading the Golden Tigresses' offense.

Even after falling short of capturing a championship during her UAAP stint, Laure still has her eyes locked on becoming a champion as a pro.

"Of course (I want) to get a title. I didn't achieve it with UST but with Chery, I will strive and work to get that title," Laure said.

"But first we need to get a podium (finish)," she continued.

Chery Tiggo now holds a 4-2 record, including a win that broke Creamline's 19-game win streak in the PVL All-Filipino Conference.