Nxled import Meegan Hart during the PVL Reinforced Conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Meegan Hart came in as a last-minute reinforcement for Nxled in the PVL Reinforced Conference.
She already has plans for what could be a lengthy stay in the country.
“Winning games is the number one goal,” the 6-foot-2 middle blocker told the Inquirer after the Chameleons escaped with a 25-19, 22-25, 25-18, 25-27, 15-12 victory on Tuesday over the Galeries Tower Highrisers at PhilSports Arena.
“I am just excited to be here. It’s always been a dream of mine to play here.”
Hart was listed as one of two imports for the Chameleons, the other being Chinese outside spiker Jiang Xuanyao.
“It was a struggle to make a decision because we only trained with [Hart] for one day while [Jiang] trained with us longer,” said assistant coach Raffy Mosuela.
But Hart’s performance may have swayed management to keep her for good.
The former Colorado University standout in the US NCAA delivered 19 points and had seven massive blocks to lead Nxled to the opening-day victory under new Chinese coach Chen Gang.
Despite practicing just for one day with her teammates, Hart seemed right at home with Chen’s system.
“I think I’m fitting in really well, the girls have been super supportive,” she said.
“I would say [the game is] a lot faster … than what I’m used to. The plays are a little bit longer. I think it’s a fast transition but again, I’ve been welcomed with open arms, my teammates have been super supportive, and the coaching staff.”
Galeries also came in with a replacement import, fielding Thai veteran Sutadta Chuewulim, who arrived Monday night to replace Monique Helena.The Philippines is Hart’s first Asian stop in her volleyball career. Before flying here, Hart had played professionally abroad only in Cyprus.
The reception she got exceeded her expectations.
“Everyone has been so nice and welcoming, asking for pictures and stuff. Everyone has been so great. As a volleyball player, you want everyone to support you and come to the games and watch,” she said.
May Luna also had a huge game for Nxled, helping the Chameleons bounce back from a poor start in the deciding frame.
Chery Tiggo triumphs Up next for Nxled is Chery Tiggo in a battle of teams that won their opening games this conference.
The Crossovers leaned on Khat Bell in a decisive 25-13, 27-25, 25-22 victory over Farm Fresh in the second game.
Bell will be a marked woman against the Chameleons after leading Chery with 23 points from 22 attacks and one block.
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While Nxled may have decided on Hart, the team is looking for a stronger connection between the imports and the locals as the conference progresses.“Since we’ve had just a short time [training] together, eventually, we want to build the chemistry of the team and also the connection with the setter,” assistant coach Lorden Tiu told the Inquirer. “That’s what we still lack and what we’re trying to improve and build.” —WITH A REPORT FROM LANCE AGCAOILI INQ
