For powering Petro Gazz to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference finals, Myla Pablo earned the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week award for the period April 1 to 3.
The veteran spiker outshone teammate Brooke Van Sickle and Creamline standouts Bernadeth Pons and Pangs Panaga for the weekly recognition, awarded by journalists covering the league.
Pablo showed her attacking and blocking skills as the Angels completed a sweep of the round robin semifinals to arrange a title duel with the Cool Smashers, who are seeking their fifth consecutive crown.
The two-time Most Valuable Player scored 13 points, including five blocks, as Petro Gazz beat Choco Mucho 24-26, 25-18, 25-17, 27-25 at Philsports Arena in Pasig City on April 1.
Pablo delivered a game-high 16 points on 11 attacks, four blocks and an ace in the Angels’ over Akari at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on April 3 to propel Petro Gazz to the finals for the first time in two years.
She thanked Japanese coach Koji Tsuzurabara and her teammates, led by Van Sickle.
“I’m so happy that we’re in the finals. I’m not the only one working hard. Almost everyone of us stepped up, including our subs, Nang (Aiza Maizo-Pontillas), (Djanel) Cheng,” the 31-year-old Pablo said.
Pablo credited the guidance of Tsuzurabara and the support of her teammates, especially setter Chie Saet and offensive partner Van Sickle.
“I said, if coach gives me the opportunity to play, why would I let it slip away? That’s why I gave my best and had to help Brooke with offense and blocking. I’m also happy with the setters who give me confidence on the court,” she added.
Game 1 of the finals will start April 8, also at the Big Dome.
“Chie said All-Filipino is a different battle. It’s about all of us working together as a team,” Pablo said.
“Coach Koji told us: don’t give just 100 percent — give 200 percent. We’re in the finals now. There’s no reason to hold back,” she added. (PNA)
