The tandem of Khat Bell and Ara Galang have powered the Chery Tiggo Crossovers to a 2-0 start in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
A lot has indeed changed since American spiker Khat Bell made her return to the Philippines for the ongoing 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Bell has been her usual dominant self as she led the Chery Tiggo Crossovers to a 2-0 start after their straight-sets victory over the Nxled Chameleons on Saturday, July 20, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Helping Bell so far for Chery Tiggo is former-opponent-turned-teammate Ara Galang, who contributed 11 markers in the victory.
Before joining forces in the Crossovers, Galang was a key player for F2 Logistics Cargo Movers, while Bell showcased her talents with the Petron Blaze Spikers. The two fought many wars in the now-defunct Philippine Super Liga, including two Finals showdowns.
Now, as teammates, Bell and Galang’s synergy is proving to be a game-changer for Chery Tiggo.
Galang expressed her excitement about playing alongside Bell, highlighting the advantages of having such a talented player as a teammate.
“Sobrang amazing siyang kalaban at syempre, ngayon, na kakampi pa, mas okay. Super happy na syempre, kasama ko na siya ngayon sa court na nagtutulungan kami ngayon,” Galang said during the post-game press conference.
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Bell, who has closely observed Galang’s growth over the past two seasons, is equally thrilled about their team-up.
“It’s definitely less stressful having her [Ara Galang] on my team. I watched her the last two seasons that I’ve been here. She’s absolutely amazing. I admire her work ethic as well, and just seeing her grow her game as an attacker from the opposite has been great,” said Bell.
“She’s attacking a lot higher and a lot more than the last few years, and the strength is insane. I can tell she’s been in the gym working hard, and I’m just so glad to have her as a teammate and not as an opponent anymore,” she added.
With the combined prowess of Galang and Bell, Chery Tiggo has maintained an impressive unbeaten record in the Reinforced Conference.
The Crossovers will look to go 3-0 next Thursday, July 25, as they face the Galeries Tower Highrisers at 5:00 p.m.