Creamline Cool Smashers’ Sisi Rondina.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
If Sisi Rondina needed a boost, she got an “overwhelming” one on Thursday.
Barangay Ginebra resident import Justin Brownlee was on hand to enjoy the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference doubleheader at PhilSports Arena and he specifically cited Rondina as among the players he was eager to watch.
“I do have a favorite player, Sisi Rondina. That’s one of my favorite players,” the naturalized Filipino told reporters. “She’s all around, for real. She’s good at obviously, spiking the ball. She’s not one on the taller side but I think she’s just all around.”
READ: Brownlee pulls up to watch PVL games and ‘favorite’ Sisi Rondina
Rondina did not fail her celebrity fan.
The former University of Santo Tomas star finished with 23 points, 22 from attacks, as she powered Choco Mucho to a 25-18, 25-20, 25-21 victory over Cignal HD.
“It’s an honor,” Rondina said of Brownlee’s presence. “[Having his support] can boost your confidence.”
Justin Brownlee meets his volleyball idol Sisi Rondina. #PVL2024 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/kPqvYE9oU6
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) March 14, 2024
As it turns out, admiration isn’t a one-street: “He’s also my idol because he jumps high, too. The way he dunks [is amazing.] I’ve been seeing him before during my days with Petron”
READ: PVL: Sisi Rondina playing true to MVP form for Choco Mucho
But Rondina admitted that having one of basketball’s biggest names cheering for you can be a bit daunting.
“That’s Brownlee, after all,” she said. “He’s an Asian Games champion.”
There was one other thing that made Rondina nervous: “I thought my English skills would be challenged.”
Like Brownlee’s Ginebra, Choco Mucho is also a fan-favorite in the PVL. Rondina vows to work harder for their fans as she hopes to encourage more sports fans to support the flourishing professional league.
“We will do our best not to waste their support, especially those who come from far places to watch. We’re very grateful for their support,” Rondina said.
“I hope there are more fans who come to support us in and the PVL especially with volleyball booming among the youth.”