Savannah Davison had an extra reason to smile after PLDT’s sweep of Nxled on Friday night.
Her mother, Barbara, watched her play live for the first time in two years before heading off to Japan later tonight. And Savannah made sure the moment counted — leading the High Speed Hitters to a commanding 25-22, 25-21, 25-20 victory over the Chameleons.
“She came the first year I was here. But it’s been two years,” the Fil-Canadian winger told Tiebreaker Times.
“She comes back and forth kasi a lot of my family goes back home din. When they don’t, she just comes here.”
The PVL Invitational MVP delivered a team-high 19 points on 14 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. She also contributed nine excellent receptions in an inspired performance that propelled PLDT to the top of Pool A with a 4-1 record.
(C) PVL Images
Davison said seeing her mother cheering in the stands motivated her to give everything on the court, pushing her to lead the High Speed Hitters with a complete, all-around performance.
“Of course. I mean, she’s super proud of me, we text all the time… She’s basically my best friend — aside from my dad. Don’t tell my dad,” Davison said with a laugh.
“I love her being here wholeheartedly. I don’t get nervous or anything; she’s seen me in all sorts of phases in my life, especially with volleyball.”
What made the visit even more special was seeing the Philippines through her mother’s eyes.
“It’s super fun ‘cause she tells me about her childhood whenever we pass something. She’s like, ‘This wasn’t here before, [or] I remember when this was built,’ so it’s like a little piece of her,” Davison shared.
“It’s different because I know the Philippines without her, and I know it with her. It’s just a very blessed moment for me to have.”
Davison is already looking forward to more moments like this when her mother returns from Tokyo before the crossover round, hoping to create even more shared memories on and off the court.
“So I’m just glad to see her here in her hometown, and [see] me playing in the Philippines.”
