REIGNING Volleyball Nations League champion the United States, showing up with a mix of Tokyo Olympians and newcomers, humbled Bulgaria yesterday 25-20, 25-22, 25-20 to open its Week 2 campaign on a high note at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Outside hitter Kelsey Robinson, one of the five Tokyo gold medalists on the team, came through with 14 points and four receptions as the Americans bounced back from a shocking loss to Japan in Week 1 of the nation-hopping event.
“I’m just so happy to be wearing the USA jersey and back with amazing teammates and fun to play with new faces,” said Robinson, whose match-winning spike powered her team to a 4-1 card in the event backed by Mikasa, Ganten, Gerflor and Senoh as global sponsors and global suppliers, PLDT Home as presenting partner, Rebisco, MG Philippines, TOP Speed Insurance, Asics and Maynilad as official sponsors.
Among the other players who shone for the Americans were opposite spiker Danielle Cuttino, who scored 12 points, including two blocks, and seven digs; and middle blocker Hanna Tapp, who had 11 points.
Setter Micha Hancock, the team captain, liked what she saw with the new bunch of players in the tourney also backed by Havas Ortega, The Look Company, Summit Outdoor Media, Marketing Media Ventures, Strong Media Advertising Solutions. 91.5 Win Radio, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, City of Taguig, Quezon City and F2 Logistics.
“We will just have fun while we play the best of the world,” said Hancock.
Middle blocker Haleigh Washington, another Tokyo Olympian, was the other American in double digits with 10 points highlighted by match-high four service aces and two blocks.
Fan favorite Justine Wong-Orantes, a member of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics team whose mother is Chinese and father a Mexican, was inspired by the reception given to her by Filipino fans.
“I’m super excited that the Filipino fans are amazing,” said Wong-Orantes, who had eight digs. “I’m just looking forward to see the fans coming out in the next couple of days.”
