Player Profile Series: Deanna Wong, The Court’s Quiet Leader

When it comes to grace under pressure, sharp court vision, and consistency in execution, Maria Deanna Izabella Alvizo Wong—known to fans simply as Deanna Wong—stands tall as one of the Philippines’ most recognized volleyball setters.

Born on July 18, 1998, Wong hails from Cebu, where her volleyball journey began not on a grand court but in a humble sixth-grade intramural game, all thanks to a best friend’s invitation. That small moment would eventually lead to a stellar collegiate and professional volleyball career.

She first studied at Saint Theresa’s College of Cebu and later attended the University of San Jose–Recoletos for high school. Her early promise in volleyball soon caught the attention of university scouts, leading to training invitations from San Sebastian College–Recoletos and eventually Ateneo de Manila University, where her collegiate career truly blossomed.

Wong officially joined the Ateneo Lady Eagles in UAAP Season 78 (2016). Initially playing as a libero, she later transitioned to her true calling: setter. Her breakout came in UAAP Season 80 (2018), where she not only secured the Best Setter Award but also helped Ateneo secure a bronze finish.

Under her leadership on the court, the Lady Eagles earned multiple podium finishes:

2016 – UAAP Season 78 Silver

2017 – UAAP Season 79 Silver

2018 – UAAP Season 80 Bronze

2019 – UAAP Season 81 Champion

Though she took a hiatus in UAAP Season 82 and planned a return in Season 83, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of the tournament. Ultimately, Wong decided to shift her focus toward professional play.

In June 2020, Wong officially joined the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), where she has since established herself as a core player and crowd favorite. She also represented the Philippine women’s national team, suiting up for Team Choco Mucho in the 2021 Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship.

Wong was set to compete in the 2021 Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam as part of the national team, but various challenges affected the team's final roster.

2018 – PVL Open Conference Silver (Ateneo-Motolite)

2023 – Bronze, VTV International Women’s Volleyball Cup (Choco Mucho)

2023 – 1st Runner-Up, PVL Second All-Filipino Conference (Choco Mucho)

2024 – 1st Runner-Up, PVL All-Filipino Conference (Choco Mucho)

Wong took up AB Interdisciplinary Studies at Ateneo de Manila University, further showcasing her ability to balance academics and athletics at the highest level. She’s also been open about her personal life, previously in a relationship with Jema Galanza and currently with Ivy Lacsina, both fellow volleyball professionals.

Despite her quiet demeanor, Wong has made waves beyond volleyball. She was nominated for Push Sports Personality of the Year in 2018, a testament to her growing influence in and out of the court.

Deanna Wong’s story is one of quiet determination, adaptability, and excellence. From Cebu’s intramural courts to the biggest volleyball arenas in the country, she has proven that setters don’t just create plays—they create legacies.