FILE– Petro Gazz Angels’ MJ Phillips.–PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — MJ Phillips will be missing some time for Petro Gazz’s ’three-peat’ bid in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference due to a left foot injury.
Phillips on Thursday was wearing a walking boot on her left foot in Petro Gazz’s campaign opener against ZUS Coffee in Pool B at Philsports Arena.
Her on-court return depends on her recovery progress.
“No specific timeline right now. Just taking it day-by-day and just trying to get stronger,” Phillips told reporters.
READ: PVL: MJ Phillips return comes at best time for Petro Gazz Angels
“I guess overused just playing a lot. It’s unfortunate but unfortunately, like every athlete gets injured. It’s just nothing I’m not used to.”
Petro Gazz middle blocker MJ Phillips on her left foot injury: No specific timeline right now. Just taking it day-by-day and just trying to get stronger.#PVL2024 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/ThjfbUSXDN
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) July 18, 2024
Phillips played in South Korea last season and rejoined the Angels late in the PVL All-Filipino Conference, where they finished with a bronze medal.
Although she will be missing the action for a number of games, the Filipino-American middle blocker is excited for her teammates led by returning Cuban Wilma Salas and PVL All-Filipino MVP Brooke Van Sickle.
READ: PVL: After key signings, Petro Gazz to be even better in MJ Phillips return
“I’m good so far. I’m excited that PVL is starting up again and just seeing great volleyball, especially since it’s import season right now,” Phillips said. “I’m excited because I finally get to see them live in action again. Practice could be a different environment so I think all our hard work will show up right now.”
Myla Pablo also missed the match as she was under the weather.