Van Sickle, Phillips silence critics

AMID the Petro Gazz Angels' hard-earned rise to the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino crown, a storm of unwarranted doubt tried to cloud their triumph.

But instead of succumbing, Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Phillips responded the only way they knew how — with brilliance on the court and grace off it.

Their historic Game 3 win over the Creamline Cool Smashers was more than just a championship clincher — it was a masterclass in composure and excellence. Yet, while Petro Gazz celebrated its first-ever All-Filipino title, murmurs about the identities of Van Sickle and Phillips grew louder, driven by fans reluctant to accept the changing tides of the sport.

Despite both players holding Filipino citizenship and proudly tracing their roots to Zambales and Ilocos Sur, detractors questioned their place in the tournament. But the numbers — and their impact — told a different story.

Van Sickle dropped 21 points and showed off her all-around skill with 18 excellent receptions and 9 excellent digs — a performance that earned her the tournament MVP award.

Her court vision, relentless energy and poise under pressure made her a nightmare for opponents and a beacon of hope for her team.

Phillips was a defensive wall and a clutch scorer, registering 15 points and anchoring the Angels' frontline with muscle and focus when it mattered most.

While a section of fans focused on their background, Van Sickle and Phillips focused on the goal.

"I just try to ignore the comments," said Phillips, who has been playing in the local front since 2017. "Everything is honestly for my mom and my lola who passed away. Every time I look at the flag of the Philippines — it's for my lola."

Van Sickle, who joined the Angels last year, echoed that sentiment. "I don't expect people to be open arms with us. I understand how they feel. But I'm here, I'm representing the Philippines. I just wanna be able to play volleyball — the sport I love — and continue to immerse myself in this culture, our culture."