Annie Mitchem capped Akari’s dramatic bronze-medal comeback with a heartfelt wish: to return to the Chargers after what she calls her “best time” in the PVL.
Annie Mitchem’s first PVL stint ended with a medal around her neck.
The American import powered Akari with 36 big points in its stunning comeback, 15-25, 25-23, 21-25, 26-24, 20-18, over PLDT in the 2025 Reinforced Conference bronze medal match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao Sunday, Nov. 30.
The win completed Akari’s back-to-back podium finishes in the import-laden conference.
And it almost did not happen.
Mitchem admitted she thought the Chargers’ run was over when they trailed 4–15 in the fourth set.
“In the fourth set, I thought it was over. I was preparing to just finish,” Mitchem said during the post-game press conference.
“And then, all of a sudden, we were winning. I don’t even think we expected that. It was a shock for even ourselves.”
Nerves in the tight winner-take-all fifth set
Despite Akari's deficit, Mitchem and the rest of her teammates clawed back point by point, eventually forcing a decider and carrying the momentum there.
“In the fifth set, I was really, really nervous,” Mitchem laughed.
“It was so tight. I think I was the most nervous. Maybe I wasn’t showing it, but I was feeling it.”
Annie Mitchem reacts during Akari's five-set battle against PLDT. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
With the rest of the Chargers rallying behind her, Mitchem helped drag the team across the finish line, completing the 20-18 escape and sealing the franchise’s second bronze medal finish.
Another run with Akari?
After a successful campaign with the Chargers, the American spiker made it clear that she would like another stint in the league – hopefully with the same team.
“Yeah, I would love to come back. I hope I can come back to Akari,” said Mitchem.
“I really had the best time here. The relationship with the girls and the staff, and the coach loves me. I’m really thankful to be here.”
More than the nerve-racking turnaround and the bronze medal that came with it, Mitchem said it was the bonds formed within the team that made her experience unforgettable.
“I’ve said this so many times, but I’ve had the best time here—and I want to come back.”
For now, rest and celebration await Akari as they end the year on a high note.
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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.