Editor’s note: This story was updated on April 9 to reflect a correction in Gupiteo’s diagnosis. It was initially reported as pneumonia, but UST coaching staff clarified on April 9 that the correct diagnosis is cellulitis.
UST outside hitter Alche Gupiteo was absent from the Golden Spikers’ straight-set victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles on April 5 due to cellulitis, according to the team’s assistant coach.
UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape said the 6-foot-2 outside hitter was admitted to the hospital on April 4 with what was initially thought to be pneumonia but was later diagnosed as cellulitis. He is now recovering.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and the tissues beneath it, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Those infected often experience pain, tenderness, and discoloration of the skin.
“Okay naman. Recovering na,” Mape told the Varsitarian.
Ahead of the Ateneo game, UST head coach Odjie Mamon told the Varsitarian that Gupiteo, the UAAP Season 86 men’s beach volleyball MVP, had been confined to the hospital due to a medical condition.
UST’s men’s volleyball team wished Gupiteo a speedy recovery in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“Prayers up for Alche Gupiteo’s fast recovery, get well soon,” the post read.
Originally recruited as an indoor player, Gupiteo transitioned to beach volleyball when he joined UST in 2022 alongside fellow Mindanaoan standout Josh Ybañez.
He returned to indoor volleyball in January after helping UST win its sixth straight beach volleyball championship just two months prior.
Gupiteo recorded a season-high 13 points in a game against the Adamson Soaring Falcons on March 1.
