Team USA wields broom vs Poland for fifth victory in VNL Week 2
REIGNING three-time Volleyball Nations League (VNL) champions United States displayed its deep arsenal in a 25-12, 25-21, 25-16 conquest of Poland at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday.
Outside hitter Ali Frantti, in her first match in the Quezon City leg, had three blocks to finish with 18 points, seven receptions and six digs, while opposite Nia Reed, making her VNL debut, had 12 points and 13 digs as the Americans improved to 5-1 wonlost.
The top-ranked team in the world, the US will have weekend dates against Asian powerhouse China on Saturday and Thailand on Sunday as it tries to keep within reach of tournament leaders Japan in the event that has Mikasa, Ganten, Gerflor and Senoh as global sponsors and global suppliers, PLDT Home as presenting partner, Rebisco, MG Philippines, Top Speed Insurance, Asics and Maynilad as official sponsors, Havas Ortega, The Look Company, Summit Outdoor Media, Marketing Media Ventures, Strong Media Advertising Solutions. 91.5 Win Radio, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, City of Taguig, Quezon City and F2 Logistics as official suppliers.
A product of US NCAA Division I powerhouse Penn State, Frantti liked what she saw with the team, which has a mix of members of Tokyo Olympic gold medalists and VNL debutants.
“It has been unbelievable with this being in this group of girls. It’s been an honor and privileged just to be with all of these amazing talents,” said Frantti, who plays for Italian club Chieri ‘76. “It was a group effort tonight. I’m very happy with it.”
Madi Kingdon Rishel also scored 11 points while Olympian Chiaka Ogbogu had two blocks for a nine-point outing for the Americans.
The opportunity to play under legendary Coach Karch Kiraly was wonderful for Reed.