Phillips return thrills Palma

PetroGazz team captain Remy Palma couldn't wait to team up with MJ Phillips once again and her excitement is going to be over soon as the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference kicks off on 20 February.

Palma, who won the 2022 PVL Reinforced Conference with Phillips, said at the sidelines of the AFC press conference yesterday that she is happy to have the Filipino-American back on board.

PetroGazz finished last year's 2nd All-Filipino Conference at sixth place with a 6-5 win-loss record.

"When I heard the news, of course I was so happy. Personally, I missed her," Palma said.

"We're excited and we're looking forward to seeing how far we will go in this conference."

Phillips last played in Korea for the Gwangju AI Peppers in the Korean Volleyball League as the only Filipina player to get drafted.

With the national team pool member back on board, the Angels are set to challenge for the PVL crown this conference.

After PetroGazz appointed Japanese mentor Koji Tsuzurabara and acquired Brooke Van Sickle, the squad clinched the 2024 PNVF Champions League last Saturday after a 25-21, 25-19, 25-14 win over Cignal.

Phillips will add more firepower to the Angels as she joins forces with Palma, Van Sickle, Nicole Tiamzon, Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and Michelle Morente.

While Phillips' return date hasn't been announced yet, Palma expects the heavy hitter will join them soon.

PetroGazz will open its PVL campaign on opening day against Strong Group Athletics at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

"We know that she will make it. Hopefully she will be able to play a lot of games with us because she will be a big help to the team," Palma said.

"We're looking forward to going far in the tournament to the best we can."