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 in the PVL Reinforced Conference playoffs on Tuesday at Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Surpassing her previous high of 39 points, Bell left everything on the floor in the knockout quarterfinals with 39 kills and a block on top of 15 excellent receptions and nine digs.
“It sucks. We got into a situation we didn’t want to be in. I was really looking forward to moving to the next round, but things happen, and it’s just part of a small setback to a bigger picture, I always say, whether that’s here or for my career 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 proud of the girls. They worked so hard. They were fighting from Set 1. Set 4 was kinda down and trying to come back in the fifth was just amazing. It’s disappointing for sure, but I’m just super fortunate to be here, and I’m just fortunate and blessed to be part of Chery Tiggo. The opportunity’s been amazing,” she added.
The 31-year-old outside spiker is set to play professionally at home in the United States for LOVB Volleyball and Athletes Unlimited but she seeks to comeback next year with the Crossovers if the schedule permits.
“I have signed a two-year contract for LOVB Volleyball in the States. That starts in November. We have AAU, Athletes Unlimited, also in the States. I’m supposed to be there to start training,” said Bell. “I will obviously love to be here. That would be my thing, just playing here in the summertime in your season then playing back in the States in the cool season.”
Bell, who played for Petron in three Philippine Superliga Grand Prix stints, relished her first PVL experience, wishing all the best for her teammates in the All-Filipino Conference in November.
“I think it’s special and different because I got to experience playing with girls I’ve always competed against. Just being able to have those relationships and have that dynamic with those girls and be part of being on their side of the net has just been great. They come in and just welcomed me with open arms and everybody’s been just so loving and so caring. This 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 reach 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 know we can get better at, just keep those in mind. Watch lots of films and videos and just try to get better by yourself, that way you can elevate people around you. Keep working hard.”
Chery Tiggo coach KungFu Reyes hopes his wards will learn from Bell after missing the semifinals.
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“Mas naging inspirasyon nila si Khat. Leadership, work etiquette niya, especially during 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 hard work 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 in the All-Filipino after missing the duo this midseason tournament.