SAN JUAN — The Queen was on a mission.
Her heart in the right place and her body ready to deliver in a crucial stretch for her team, Akari import Prisilla Rivera made sure the Chargers won’t be going home empty-handed anew Thursday night.
The 6-foot-1 outside hitter made it rain and scored a Philippine professional record-44 points as they trampled on Choco Mucho, 23-25, 25-21, 25-19, 21-25, 15-12, to post their second win in the 2022 PVL Reinforced Conference at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Rivera flashed her strength, skill and wit in recording 39 kills on 49.4% accuracy, four aces and a block in a performance that drew praise from all over the Philippine volleyball community.
In tandem with the beautiful setting of Jaja Maraguinot, the former Dominican Republic skipper was aggressive and decisive, providing offense whenever the Chargers would need it and also giving the emotional spark for her teammates.
Rivera’s 44-piece exceeded the two 40-point performances that preceded hers. On May 5, 2017, Pocari Sweat reinforcement Michelle Strizak carried the Lady Warriors on her back with 40 points in a loss to Air Force. Less than a year later, it was Perlas ace Kia Bright’s chance to shine with 41 markers, albeit in another loss to Paymaya in the semifinals.
