Petro Gazz’s MJ Phillips flies to Korea to join her V-League team

FILE – Petro Gazz Angels’ MJ Philips. PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—MJ Phillips is headed to Korea to join her in the Korean V-League club and will not be able to participate in the ongoing Premier Volleyball League’s Invitational Cup.

With the Gwangju AI Peppers waiting in the wings, Phillips was unable to suit up for the Angels for their opener against the Cignal HD Spikers two days ago.

Petro Gazz was awaiting approval from the Korean V-League team on letting her play in the PVL days before she left. The Angels, though, wished the middle blocker a fruitful journey ahead.

“From local legend to global contender! Sending our heartfelt wishes for an unforgettable volleyball stint in Korea, MJ Phillips. Good luck and have fun,” the team wrote on Twitter.

MJ Phillips departs for Korea. –MJ Phillips Instagram

In an Instagram Story, Phillips bid goodbye to the Philippines as she sets out to be the only Filipino import in the Korean V.League.

On Wednesday, Petro Gazz coach Oliver Almadro was still unsure whether or not he would be able to use one of his most coveted players in an Angels uniform for the Invitationals.

Still, the head tactician showed “full support” for Phillips.

MJ Phillips at the sidelines during the Petro Gazz Angels’ game in the PVL Invitational Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“We fully support MJ in her career, especially going to Korea. We’re afraid that it might affect her preparation for Korea and we’re not yet sure if she’s allowed to play in this tournament or if she has to go there right away,” Almadro told reporters in Filipino after their 25-18, 18-25, 21-25, 22-25 loss at the hands of F2 at San Juan Arena.

“Actually, she already delayed her departure to stay with us. But unfortunately, we have to be careful.”

The two-time PVL Best Middle Blocker was selected by Gwangju with the fifth pick in the 2023 Korean Volleyball Federation (KOVO) Women’s Asian Quota draft in April.