Once known strictly for her offense, Savi Davison has emerged as the league's top blocker with 18 rejections, anchoring PLDT’s defense in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Known for her scoring firepower, Savi Davison has transformed herself into one of the PVL’s best defenders.
Entering Saturday’s match against Galeries Tower, the PLDT superstar led the entire league with 15 total blocks in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.
[ALSO READ: Leading the pack: Statistical leaders after Round 1 of 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference]
But back then, Davison was quick to admit that blocking wasn't her forte at all.
“I was actually the worst blocker in college,” Davison shared to reporters. “After college, I kind of tried to perfect the craft. I’m just glad it’s showing. I get lucky sometimes, but for the most part, it’s a conscious effort mentally, just watching people.”
That effort has paid off for Savi, standing out even on a PLDT team stacked with talented middle blockers.
Once a player known purely for her attacking and athleticism, Davison now anchors the High Speed Hitters' net defense with precise reads and timing that have translated directly into points.
“I’m glad it’s being executed well and that it’s turning into points for our team,” she added.
Finding rhythm in Ilocos Sur
Davison’s defensive poise once again stood out as PLDT turned back Galeries Tower in four sets, 25-19, 19-25, 25-16, 25-21, at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur on Saturday.
After a shaky start that saw the High Speed Hitters concede the second set, Davison powered a steady performance, finishing with 21 points on 18 attacks and three blocks.
“I think I’m just glad that we came out and executed today,” Davison said.
“Even though there’s a storm going on, we had a lot of people show up. We started off slow, we let them get the second set, but I’m glad we were able to finish.”
Adjusting to new surroundings in Candon City, she said, was also part of the challenge.
“It’s kind of hard playing in a new gym, lights, crowd, everything, but I’m glad we found our base and we were able to finish it off.”
[ALSO READ: PLDT’s Savi Davison welcomes import challenge in first PVL Reinforced campaign]
With the victory, PLDT nabbed solo second in the overall standings with a 5-1 record, nearing a quarterfinal berth.
The High Speed Hitters will have a week to prepare for their next match as they take on the Chery Tiggo Crossovers next Saturday, November 15, at the Ynares Center Montalban
(With reports from Aivan Episcope/One Sports)
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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.