"Recollections resurface regarding the 'Bacarra bubble' as Chery Tiggo participates in PVL finals once more"
The Chery Tiggo Crossovers are set to make a comeback in the PVL finals, as they prepare to face the PLDT High Speed Hitters in the 2025 PVL on Tour knockout final on August 17 at the Mall of Asia Arena. This return to the finals marks the end of a three-year podium drought for the team and a testament to their resilience and adaptability.
Early Success and Challenges
The Chery Tiggo Crossovers first tasted victory in 2021, when they became the first professional champions of the PVL. Led by Jaja Santiago and Dindin Santiago, the team triumphed over the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling best-of-three finals, overcoming a loss in the first game to win the next two matches. However, their success was followed by several seasons of mid-table finishes, marred by roster shake-ups and coaching changes.
Rebuilding and Return to Finals
In an effort to regain their competitive edge, the Chery Tiggo Crossovers have undergone a transformation, retooling their lineup to incorporate fresh rookie talent and adopting a more team-first approach. This shift has allowed them to navigate the challenging playoff route of the PVL on Tour, ultimately securing a spot in the finals.
In recent competitions, the Crossovers have demonstrated resilience and composure, as seen in their upset victory over Creamline in the 2025 PVL Invitational. However, they have also faced setbacks, such as defeats against PLDT in the same tournament. The leadership and team dynamics have evolved to accommodate new players and strategies, although specific details on their coaching staff or leadership changes are not provided in the available sources.
Evolution of Team Composition
The team's early success was heavily attributed to the leadership and skills of the Santiago sisters. Over the years, the team has undergone significant roster changes, introducing new talent to enhance their performance. The current lineup emphasizes teamwork and adaptability, which has been crucial in their return to competitive form.
Leadership Evolution
While specific details about the current coaching staff or leadership structure are not available in the search results, the team's ability to adapt and evolve under new circumstances suggests a dynamic leadership approach focused on maximizing team potential.
As the Chery Tiggo Crossovers prepare to face the PLDT High Speed Hitters in the upcoming knockout final, they are considered underdogs. However, their journey from their historic win as the first professional champions of the PVL in 2021 to their return to the finals is a testament to their perseverance and transformation. This return to the finals is expected to be another win for the growth of Philippine volleyball, as the sport continues to see significant improvements in crowd attendance, talent, skill levels, and international exposure in the last half-decade.
During their preparation for the 2025 PVL on Tour knockout final, the Chery Tiggo Crossovers reminisce about their first sports victory in 2021, when they claimed the title as the first professional champions of the PVL in basketball. Despite the challenges they faced in subsequent seasons, including roster shake-ups and coaching changes, the team has rebounded and made a dramatic return to the finals, showcasing their continuing passion for basketball.