Chery Tiggo’s Khat Bell.-MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Khat Bell’s career-high 40 points weren’t enough as Chery Tiggo blew a 2-1 set lead against Lena Samoilenko-led PLDT within the PVL Reinforced Conference playoffs on Tuesday at Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Surpassing her previous high of 39 points, Bell left every thing on the ground within the knockout quarterfinals with 39 kills and a block on top of 15 excellent receptions and nine digs.
“It sucks. We got right into a situation we didn’t need to be in. I used to be really looking forward to moving to the following round, but things occur, and it’s just a part of a small setback to an even bigger picture, I at all times say, whether that’s here or for my profession after I leave here,” said the American import after her counterpart Samoilenko powered PLDT to a 25-23, 25-27, 15-25, 25-18, 15-9 win to make the semifinals.
READ: PVL: Majoy Baron’s experience proves crucial for PLDT
Chery Tiggo coach KungFu Reyes and Khat Bell after a quarterfinal exit. #PVL2024 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/gm9CpVMJgX
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) August 27, 2024
“I’m just super pleased with the ladies. They worked so hard. They were fighting from Set 1. Set 4 was kinda down and trying to come back back within the fifth was just amazing. It’s disappointing needless to say, but I’m just super fortunate to be here, and I’m just fortunate and blessed to be a part of Chery Tiggo. The chance’s been amazing,” she added.
The 31-year-old outside spiker is ready to play professionally at home in america for LOVB Volleyball and Athletes Unlimited but she seeks to comeback next yr with the Crossovers if the schedule permits.
“I even have signed a two-year contract for LOVB Volleyball within the States. That starts in November. We have now AAU, Athletes Unlimited, also within the States. I’m presupposed to be there to start out training,” said Bell. “I’ll obviously like to be here. That will be my thing, just playing here within the summertime in your season then playing back within the States within the cool season.”
Bell, who played for Petron in three Philippine Superliga Grand Prix stints, relished her first PVL experience, wishing all the perfect for her teammates within the All-Filipino Conference in November.
“I feel it’s special and different because I got to experience fidgeting with girls I’ve at all times competed against. Just with the ability to have those relationships and have that dynamic with those girls and be a part of being on their side of the web has just been great. They are available and just welcomed me with open arms and everybody’s been just so loving and so caring. That is like being home for me and it’s been very special for me,” said Bell.
READ: PVL: PLDT survives Khat Bell, Chery Tiggo to succeed in semis
What’s next for Khat Bell?#PVL2024 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/9uX96MVKCh
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) August 27, 2024
“[For my teammates], just keep working hard with things we worked hard in practice and things we all know we will improve at, just keep those in mind. Watch a number of movies and videos and just attempt to improve by yourself, that way you’ll be able to elevate people around you. Keep working hard.”
Chery Tiggo coach KungFu Reyes hopes his wards will learn from Bell after missing the semifinals.
“Mas naging inspirasyon nila si Khat. Leadership, work etiquette niya, especially through the game. Talagang pag laro, talagang all out, so na-inspire yung mga local namin. Yun ang mga natutunan namin na mga player sa kanya,” said Reyes.
“We’re very thankful sa labor and commitment ni Khat. Until the last point andun siya. She got 40 points this game, monster game for her. But still not enough to get the winbecause the contribution of locals medyo kulang, tsaka marami kaming lapses doon sa floor defense namin this time.”
The Crossovers are expected to have Alas Pilipinas members Eya Laure and Jennifer Nierva within the All-Filipino after missing the duo this midseason tournament.
