Deanna Wong stepped onto the court as if she had never been away, orchestrating Choco Mucho’s thrilling five-set victory over ZUS Coffee in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday night. Her return not only broke her five-month hiatus but also reignited the Flying Titans’ campaign.
Wong, who had been sidelined with a lingering injury since the 2024 Reinforced Conference, missed the first half of the All-Filipino eliminations. But the 26-year-old playmaker made her comeback count, steering Choco Mucho to a come-from-behind win, 20-25, 20-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-9, at the Philsports Arena.
“Grateful po. Sabi nga ni coach, team effort siya, so hindi ko siya magagawa kung hindi sa effort din ng teammates ko,” Wong said after her highly anticipated return.
Wong showcased her trademark court vision and composure, delivering 10 excellent sets while contributing seven crucial points through four attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Her leadership on the court helped propel Choco Mucho to a 4-3 record, solidifying their position at sixth place in the standings.
Despite some initial nerves, Wong’s chemistry with her teammates smoothed her transition back into competitive play.
“Medyo kabado, nilalamig po ako kanina. Kung ano pong ibigay na role nila coach, tiwala lang (sa) pinagte-training namin sa practice,” Wong admitted.
She credited the team’s familiarity and long-standing bond for easing her adjustment.
“Siguro nung una nag-alalay pa pero I think also it’s because matagal na kasi kami magkasama so kahit nawala ako ng ganun katagal, nababalik din naman pagbalik ko sa training so hindi ganun kahirap,” she added.
The Flying Titans’ journey has been far from smooth this season. Wong acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasized their collective effort to stay patient and focused.
“I think it’s normal for a team to have their ups and downs. Lahat kami naging patient. It came to a point na parang we needed to regroup and we needed to talk to each other, so ‘yun ginawa namin,” she shared.
Wong believes their gradual progress as a team stems from their recognition of internal challenges and their commitment to addressing them together.
“Paunti-onti nababalik namin ‘yung galaw namin as a team. Alam namin sa sarili na sa amin ‘yung problem so kami din makakapag-solusyon dun,” she added.
With Wong back in the fold, Choco Mucho aims to build on their momentum and push deeper into the tournament.
