All eyes will be on the Criss Cross King Crunchers as they look to cement their dynasty in the upcoming 2026 Spikers' Turf Open Conference.
Ysay Marasigan understands that the pressure now sits squarely on the Criss Cross King Crunchers as they return as defending champions.
After capturing their first Spikers’ Turf title during the 2025 Invitational Conference, the King Crunchers' team captain acknowledged that repeating the feat will be an even greater challenge, especially with the rest of the field reloading.
"'Yung pressure nga sabi nila nasa amin," Marasigan told reporters during the 2026 Spikers' Turf Open Conference press conference on Monday.
"To be honest, 'yung back-to-back talaga ang pinaka-mahirap kunin pagkatapos mo mag-champion."
That understanding pushed Criss Cross to get an early start on their preparations.
"Since December, nag-training at nagwo-workout na kami," he said. "Pagpasok pa lang ng taon, talagang pinaghahandaan na namin."
Stronger playing field
Marasigan also noted how the balance of power has shifted following the shock leave of absence of the Cignal Super Spikers.
"Na-spread out talaga 'yung players ng Cignal, mas lumakas ‘yung ibang teams,” he said. "Kaya feeling namin lahat magiging challenge ngayon."
To keep pace, the King Crunchers reinforced its lineup with three key additions, headlined by three-time UAAP beach volleyball champion and two-time MVP Alche Gupiteo.
Criss Cross also added middle blocker Lloyd Josafat and Fil-Korean setter Elijah Kim, further strengthening their core.
"May tatlo kaming bagong players," Marasigan said. "'Yung galing sa beach volleyball, ngayon part na ng starting six. Malaking tulong niya sa team."
With all eyes on the King Crunchers, Marasigan knows that all the lessons and hardships they’ve racked up before their first title will prove to be useful in their title defense.
"'Yung tiyaga, 'yung patience, 'yung pagsasama-sama namin, at 'yung pag-focus sa tinuturo ni coach Tai [Bundit] every day, every training. 'Yun 'yung naging advantage namin kaya nakuha namin 'yung championship."
Criss Cross will open its Open Conference campaign against the VNS Always Bright Laticrete Wednesday, February 21, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.
—
Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.