ANTIPOLO – The spark that ignited PLDT’s stunning five-set victory over the previously unbeaten Creamline on Saturday night was none other than Majoy Baron. Known for her grit and versatility, the 6-foot middle blocker drew from her deep-rooted chemistry with her former La Salle teammates, playing a pivotal role in the High Speed Hitters’ thrilling 30-28, 25-21, 23-25, 18-25, 16-14 win at the Ynares Center in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference.
Baron’s late-game heroics ended the Cool Smashers' 19-game winning streak, marking a memorable triumph for PLDT in the latest chapter of this high-stakes season. But it was more than just her individual performance—it was about the reunion of a championship core that once dominated the UAAP. As the match unfolded, Baron and her former Lady Archers teammates—Mika Reyes, Kim Fajardo, and Kianna Dy—reignited the magic they had once shared during their championship days in Season 78.
It was in the decisive fifth set that Baron’s experience and chemistry with her former squadmates shone brightest. With PLDT trailing 8-5, it was Baron’s connection with Fajardo and Dy that sparked a 4-0 run to tie the game at 9-all, shifting the momentum squarely in the High Speed Hitters' favor. That surge paved the way for Savannah Davison to finish the job and seal the unforgettable win.
Baron reflected on her pivotal moments during the match, expressing the significance of having Fajardo and Dy back on the court with her. “Yung pagpasok ni Ate Kim and Kianna siguro malaking bagay din kasi for me, may connection talaga ako kay Ate Kim, and alam niya kelan ako gagamitin. Lagi lang ako ready dun,” said Baron, acknowledging their seamless integration into the high-pressure set.
Fajardo, who entered the game alongside Dy, showcased her court sense and leadership. Back-to-back sets from Fajardo to Baron allowed the middle blocker to score key points, while Dy delivered a clutch block on Creamline's Jema Galanza, further shifting the tide of the game in PLDT’s favor.
Throughout the match, Baron’s resilience was evident as she finished with 15 points—12 on attacks and three on kill blocks. However, her pride was not solely in her individual performance but in the collective effort of the team, which showed immense heart and determination.
“Ako, proud ako sa teamwork namin today kasi lahat talaga tulong-tulong kami. Ang quality ng mga rallies at ng laro,” she said, highlighting the team’s unwavering spirit that helped them overcome the defending champions in a grueling two-hour, 38-minute battle.
With this stunning victory, PLDT has positioned itself as a serious contender in the All-Filipino Conference, showcasing that when the pieces fall into place, they can go toe-to-toe with the best in the league.
