Nxled import Meegan Hart during the PVL Reinforced Conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines —Galeries Tower and Nxled chose to debut with different imports from what they had initially planned for the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Nxled decided to go with Meegan Hart, who got her clearance to play minutes before in Nxled’s game against Galeries Tower, which kicked off the import-laden festivities, on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.
Despite limited training with her team, Hart made an immediate impact for the Chameleons, posting 19 points in the a 25-19, 22-25, 25-18, 25-27, 15-12 win.
SCHEDULE: 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference
The Chameleons had trained with both Hart and Chinese spiker Xuanyao Jiang, but only chose their final import choice to the league on opening day according to commissioner Sherwin Malonzo.
Only one import per team is allowed and can only be replaced due to injury or abandonment of commitment by the foreign player.
“They were choosing between the two from the time the players were training with them, and at the start of our tournament, they enlisted both. Up to the last minute, they decided who to pick,” said Malonzo.
READ: PVL: Galeries, Nxled make last-minute import tweaks
Nxled deputy coach Raffy Mosuel admitted they had a hard time deciding between the two before ultimately going for the 6-foot-2 American middle blocker.
“We struggled a bit with our decision-making because the team only trained together for one day, so we had more time training with the Chinese player. That’s why we’re still having a hard time with our attacks,” he said.
“Regarding Meegan, it’s easier for her to adjust to the MB position. She plays two positions: primary MB and secondary opposite. So, the adjustment for the team is better with her in the MB position.”
Not in top shape
Galeries’ Tower import Sutadta Chuewulim in the PVL Reinforced Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIREr.net
For the part of the Galeries, the coaches brought Sutadta Chuewulim to replace Brazilian Monique Helena, whose physical conditioning left a lot to be desired after arriving two weeks ago.
“About our import Monique, she has the skills but her physical condition isn’t great. She was declared fit to play, but physically, she isn’t as fit,” said Galeries assistant coach Scott Subiere.
“We tried to catch up with her conditioning, but it didn’t work out. Thankfully, the management decided to get someone nearby, in Thailand, so the player could join us immediately.”
READ: PVL: Julia Coronel aims to bring national team experience to Galeries
Chuewulim only arrived in Manila on the eve of the Galeries’ first match.
Despite losing in five sets, the Highrisers remained optimistic with the fight led by Cheuwulim despite her first day with the team on opening day.
“She’s a veteran, so we trust that she can handle it because of her experience. She’s also coaching in Thailand, so she knows how to adjust,” Subiere said.
Nxled eyes its second win in Pool A against Chery Tiggo on Saturday, while Galeries seeks to bounce back against PLDT.