"It feels good to be back."
MJ Phillips made a triumphant return to the Premier Volleyball League on Saturday, helping Petro Gazz to a four-set victory over Nxled at Philsports Arena.
The two-time best middle blocker made her presence known, tallying 11 points upon her return from the Korean Volleyball League (KOVO) where she played for the Gwangju Al Peppers.
Phillips highlighted the process of adapting to Coach Koji Tsuzurabara's new system, a transition that proved fruitful as Petro Gazz clinched the top seed heading into the single-round robin semifinals.
"This game was crucial for me as I needed to gauge how I fit in with the team and the new system. It was a bit shaky, but we'll get there," Phillips commented.
"Adjusting to the new system and some new players has been a challenge, but we'll find our rhythm on the court. Our focus wasn't at its peak today, but we'll bounce back stronger in the semis and put up a good fight," she added.
Addressing her availability for the semifinals, Phillips clarified that the upcoming 2024 KOVO Women’s Asia Quota Draft will only be for newcomers. "Players who have already competed in the KOVO, like myself, won't need to attend tryouts. So, I'll still be here."
Regarding her participation in the semifinals, Phillips stated that the decision rests with Coach Koji. "It's ultimately up to Coach Koji to decide if I'll play, and also dependent on my body's readiness."
Petro Gazz is prepared to take on the formidable Chery Tiggo Crossovers in the semifinals on April 30 at PhilSports Arena.
"Let's go all out, apply pressure from the start, and not wait for them to make mistakes. We need to be on the offensive from the get-go," Phillips said.
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