Defending champions Kurashiki Ablaze are gearing up for a highly anticipated title defense in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference.
With reigning Finals MVP Kyoka Ohsima leading the charge, the Japanese powerhouse is set to make a triumphant return to the Philippines this September.
The Ablaze have their sights firmly set on retaining the crown they clinched in the 2023 edition, where they edged out local favorite Creamline in a dramatic final showdown. Kurashiki's 2023 campaign was nothing short of dominant, as they swept all five games in the round-robin semifinals and completed their journey with a perfect 6-0 record, culminating in a thrilling victory over the Cool Smashers.
This year's Invitational Conference will feature six teams, including local heavyweights Akari, Cignal, Creamline, and PLDT, all of whom reached the semifinals in the Reinforced Conference. The short-format tournament marks the league's third competition of the 2024 season, and anticipation is building for another exciting battle on the court. Additionally, another foreign team is expected to join the fray, adding further intrigue to the competition.
In the past year, key members of the Ablaze have made significant contributions to various PVL squads. Kurashiki's head coach Hideo Suzuki took on a consultancy role with Farm Fresh, while assistant coach Shota Sato guided the Foxies to their first playoff appearance in the import-laden tournament as their head coach.
Meanwhile, Asaka Tamaru, who was honored as one of the Best Outside Hitters during Kurashiki's championship run last year, showcased her skills as an import for ZUS Coffee in the Reinforced Conference.
With a blend of experience and a winning pedigree, Kurashiki Ablaze are primed to defend their title and continue their reign in the PVL Invitational Conference.
As they prepare to face fierce competition from both local and international squads, all eyes will be on them to see if they can replicate their success from the previous year.
