Oly Okaro’s 38-point bombshell makes history

Akari’s import Oly Okaro had a performance to remember as she paced her team to a five-set comeback against the Choco Mucho as they went 2-0 to start the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday, July 23.

The Chargers remain undefeated in Pool B after pulling off the reverse sweep against the Flying Titans, 18-25, 16-25, 25-21, 25-23, 15-13. 

The 28-year-old American opposite spiker recorded an explosive performance in the game, matching the season’s scoring record of 38 points built off 33 attacks, three aces, and two blocks. Okaro tied Creamline’s Tots Carlos in the season-opening All-Filipino Conference last March with the fifth-highest scoring output in the league’s seven year-history.

“I am very proud of how I performed, I know there are also things that I did not do very well and it is something I am going to work on moving forward but I just came ready to fight. I knew that there is no way I am leaving without fighting,” Okaro told the reporters after the game. 

Gretchel Soltones provided backup with 12 points, nine excellent digs and 13 receptions while Ivy Lacsina added 10 markers and 12 receptions.

Meanwhile, Choco Mucho dropped to a 0-2 card, its worst start since joining the pro league despite Dindin Santiago-Manabat paced the Flying Titans with 16 points. 

Royse Tubino and reinforcement Zoi Faki contributed 14 points each while mainstays Maddie Madayag and Maika Ortiz chipped in nine points.

Up next for the Chargers will be Petro Gazz Angels on Saturday, July 27, still at the PhilSports Arena while Choco Mucho will take on ZUS Coffee on the same day.