Kianna Dy marks first start for PLDT in AVC win, says she’s ‘85 percent’ back to form

After nearly two years away from the starting six, Kianna Dy finally had her first start for PLDT in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League.

While the High Speed Hitters star admits she’s not yet at her peak, the full and true comeback is well underway.

Dy started for the first time in 641 days as PLDT cruised past Australia’s Queensland Pirates, 25-19, 25-12, 25-12, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig Sunday, April 20.

“I would say I’m not yet 100 percent. Siyempre, you always want to improve every day, di ba? I’m trying to improve compared to how I played before,” Dy told reporters after the match.

“Siguro mga 85 percent,” she added.

Despite scoring just four points in the High Speed Hitters’ victory, the 29-year-old spiker definitely passed the eye test, jumping higher and moving well on the court.

But for Dy, it was the feeling of being back on the court that mattered most.

The former La Salle standout had been sidelined by a knee injury since July 2023. She officially made her return last January 28 during the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

“Coming from injury, you have to feel the court again. Thankful ako sa coaching staff and my teammates for trusting me to start the game,” she said.

[ALSO READ: PVL: Kianna Dy gets emotional after long journey back from knee injury in PLDT debut]

While Dy’s return is a bright spot for PLDT, she remains focused on regaining full strength and making sure the injury doesn’t happen again.

“Every day is still an opportunity to get better and continue lang 'yung rehab para hindi na ma-injure ulit,” she added.

[ALSO READ: Wilma Salas on joining PLDT for AVC Women’s Champions League: 'I feel like I'm home here']

Now slowly finding her rhythm, Dy is eager to close that remaining 15 percent gap as she helps steer PLDT’s AVC campaign forward.

Next up for the High Speed Hitters will be powerhouse Nakhon Ratchasima Qmin C VC of Thailand on Tuesday, April 22.