Kim Malabunga is on a mission to reclaim his dominance.
After a freak injury derailed his previous campaign, the Criss Cross middle blocker is determined to rise again—stronger, sharper, and hungrier than ever.
The Alas Pilipinas mainstay managed to return in the semifinals, but he was far from peak condition as he continued to recover.
Despite his efforts, the King Crunchers fell short in the final, suffering a sweep at the hands of Cignal.
On Sunday night, Malabunga showed significant progress in his recovery, leading Criss Cross to a commanding sweep over new squad Alpha Insurance, 25-21, 25-19, 25-21, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
The former National University standout delivered his best performance since the injury, converting an ultra-efficient 13-of-17 attacks while adding two blocks and two service aces for a game-high 17 points.
(C) Spikers’ Turf Images
“Syempre sobrang eager kasi two months ako halos nawala nun nung na-injure ako. Ginagawa ko lang ‘yung best ko para makatulong sa team ngayon and makabawi ako sa kanila from last conference na nawala ako,” said Malabunga.
Two games into the season-opening conference, Malabunga admitted he’s not yet at full strength but is steadily working his way back.
“Hindi ko masasabing 100 percent na kasi minsan sumasakit-sakit pa rin siya, nandun pa rin ‘yung sakit. Siguro kailangan ko pa i-therapy sa training and paghandaan pa sa mga susunod na games para masabi kong 100 percent na,” he said.
“Siguro mga 90 percent na, kasi may sumasakit pa eh,” he added.
Now, Malabunga’s focus is on achieving full health to become a key contributor for the King Crunchers, who are aiming for their first franchise title in their third conference in the country’s premier men’s volleyball league.
