For Savannah Davison, Friday night’s win was more than just another straight-sets victory — it was a gift for someone special watching from the stands.
When PLDT dismantled Nxled, 25-22, 25-21, 25-20, in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, the High Speed Hitters’ fiery Fil-Canadian winger had an extra reason to play her heart out: her mother, Barbara, was in the crowd, watching her live for the first time in two years.
“She came the first year I was here. But it’s been two years,” Davison said, her face lighting up as she recalled the moment. “She comes back and forth kasi a lot of my family goes back home din. When they don’t, she just comes here.”
And Davison didn’t disappoint. The reigning PVL Invitational MVP delivered a monster performance, firing 19 points on 14 attacks, three blocks, and two aces, while adding nine excellent receptions — the kind of all-around showing that has become her trademark.
Her explosive play lifted PLDT to the top of Pool A with a 4-1 record, sealing their spot among the early favorites of the tournament.
But for Davison, the numbers weren’t what mattered most. It was seeing her mom in the stands, cheering, smiling, and waving — a familiar sight that filled her with both calm and fire.
“Of course. I mean, she’s super proud of me, we text all the time... She’s basically my best friend — aside from my dad. Don’t tell my dad,” she said with a laugh.
“I love her being here wholeheartedly. I don’t get nervous or anything; she’s seen me in all sorts of phases in my life, especially with volleyball.”
Barbara’s visit also brought back memories of home — and a deeper appreciation of what the Philippines means to their family.
“It’s super fun ‘cause she tells me about her childhood whenever we pass something,” Savannah shared. “She’s like, ‘This wasn’t here before,’ or, ‘I remember when this was built,’ so it’s like a little piece of her.”
“It’s different because I know the Philippines without her, and I know it with her. It’s just a very blessed moment for me to have.”
The two will soon part ways again, as Barbara heads to Japan later tonight. But Savannah hopes their paths will cross once more before the next round — perhaps with more games, more wins, and more moments to remember together.
“So I’m just glad to see her here in her hometown, and [see] me playing in the Philippines,” she said.
