PLDT STAR Kianna Dy was thankful that her boyfriend, Gilas Pilipinas standout Dwight Ramos, and family traveled long and hard to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur from Manila to celebrate with her on the eve of her 31st birthday.
The former UAAP finals MVP made sure it was worth their time as she delivered a strong performance in powering the High Speed Hitters to a 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18 win over the shorthanded Choco Mucho Flying Titans at the Chavit Coliseum over the weekend.
The crisp-spiking Ms. Dy was all business as she uncorked a match-high 17 points, 16 of which came off attacks to help lift the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned franchise to its first triumph in this short but sweet experimental conference.
It was also her way of thanking Mr. Ramos, her family and fans who watched and cheered for her in this UNESCO-declared Heritage City up North.
“I really appreciate it because traveling here is not really easy, it’s seven hours going here so I really appreciate them watching and celebrating my birthday,” said Ms. Dy.
It wasn’t all Ms. Dy though as PLDT coach Rald Ricafort praised the shock troopers for stepping up.
“Happy with the result and the performance of the players I pulled off from the bench,” said Mr. Ricafort.
One of those who shone brightest from the second group was Alleiah Malaluan, who was still recovering from a shoulder injury but managed to chip in nine hits.
Kiesha Bedonia and Jessey De Leon likewise made an impact and contributed seven and five points, respectively.
Savi Davison also saw some action and scattered 13 points in just three sets but the team didn’t need her that much, thanks to the second unit. — Joey Villar
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