After a disappointing end to their 2024 Reinforced Conference campaign, Khat Bell has announced her intention to return to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) next year and beyond.
The 31-year-old American import is eager to make the Philippines her second home and plans to play here during the break from the volleyball season in the United States.
Despite leaving it all on the court in the knockout quarterfinals – where she scored an impressive 40 points – Chery Tiggo fell short against PLDT with a score of 23-25, 27-25, 25-15, 18-25, 9-15 on Tuesday evening.
Looking ahead, Bell has already mapped out her next steps. She has signed contracts with Athletes Unlimited, an innovative volleyball league where players are individually ranked, and with League One Volleyball (LOVB) Austin.
In the current pool of Athletes Unlimited players, familiar names include Thai superstar setter Nootsara Tomkom and former Petro Gazz import Lindsey Vander Weide.
“I have signed a two-year contract for LOVB Austin in the States. That starts in November. We have Athletes Unlimited, also in the States,” Bell said, outlining her upcoming plans.
“Good thing about that is depending on the schedule of the Reinforced Conference in the Philippines between May and November, I will obviously love to be here,” she added, expressing her desire to participate in the PVL every Reinforced Conference.
“That would be my thing, just playing here in the summertime in your season then playing back in the States in the cool season.”
Bell was a standout performer this season, finishing as the third-best scorer in the league after the preliminary round with a total of 200 points – including 182 attacks, 14 blocks, and four aces.
She also ranked fourth in spiking efficiency and seventh in blocking. Additionally, she was entrusted with the role of captain for the Crossovers, a rare position for an import.
Despite the early exit, Bell remained positive and expressed gratitude toward her team.
“It’s disappointing for sure, but I’m just super fortunate to be here, and I’m just fortunate and blessed to be part of Chery Tiggo. The opportunity’s been amazing,” she said.
“They came in and just welcomed me with open arms, and everybody’s been so loving and so caring. This is like being home for me and it’s been very special for me.”
