The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference kicked off with unexpected turns, featuring last-minute changes in imports and an unexpected defeat for reigning champions Creamline. The Galeries Tower Highrisers introduced Thai player Sutadta Chuewulim in place of the originally planned Brazilian Monique Helena, citing “physical problems” as the reason. Similarly, the Nxled Chameleons replaced Chinese player Jiang Xuanyao with American Meegan Bell based on “preference.”
In the thrilling five-set match between the Highrisers and the Chameleons, it was Bell who shone brightly, leading her team to a victory with scores of 25-19, 22-25, 25-18, 25-27, and 15-12. Bell’s performance was outstanding, racking up a game-high of 19 points for her team. Notably, Nxled chose not to play their No. 5 rookie draft pick, Lucille Almonte, in this match. France Ronquillo led the scoring for the Galeries Tower with 17 attack points.
PVL commissioner Sherwin Malonzo clarified that there were no irregularities regarding the late switches of the imports.
The day’s biggest shocker came from the PLDT High Speed Hitters, who managed to defeat the Creamline Cool Smashers in an intense five-set battle with scores of 16-25, 25-22, 24-26, 25-19, and 15-12. This marked Creamline’s first loss on an opening day since their 2019 defeat to the Petro Gazz Angels, who later won the championship. PLDT’s Russian import, Elena Samoilenko, delivered a stellar performance with 34 points, 13 excellent digs, and 14 excellent receptions. The High Speed Hitters achieved this upset despite the absence of Fil-Canadian star Savi Davison, who was the top scorer in the 2023 All-Filipino Conference and is now sidelined due to a knee procedure. Additionally, PLDT libero Kath Arado contributed significantly with 24 excellent digs, while teammates Majoy Baron and Fiola Ceballos added 11 points each.
For Creamline, import Erica Staunton led with 20 points, followed by Bernadeth Pons with 18, and Michele Gumabao with 16 points. However, the team was missing their key players Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Alyssa Valdez, which likely impacted their performance.
Another highlight of the opening day was Kath Bell’s return to the league after a four-year hiatus. She made an impressive comeback, scoring 23 points, including 22 attacks and one block, to lead the Chery Tiggo Crossovers to a 25-13, 27-25, 25-22 victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies. Bell expressed her excitement and gratitude for being back, mentioning the excellent support from the Chery Tiggo team. She praised the team for making her feel at home and helping her integrate quickly.
Overall, the first day of the PVL Reinforced Conference was marked by surprises and exciting performances, setting the stage for a competitive and thrilling season ahead.
