Photo credit: PVL

Hey volleyball fans, here’s some exciting news that’s sure to shake up the Premier Volleyball League (PVL)! After nearly two months of wondering where Risa Sato would land, the wait is over. The three-time Best Middle Blocker is officially joining the Chery Tiggo Crossovers for the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference.

The Crossovers made the big announcement on their social media on Wednesday, January 15 just as everyone’s getting back into the groove after the holiday break. Sato will be hitting the court with her new team next Tuesday, January 21, in an eagerly anticipated match against Petro Gazz at the Philsports Arena.

Standing at 5-foot-9, Sato isn’t just bringing her height but also a wealth of experience to Chery Tiggo. Currently holding a 4-2 record and in a solid fourth place, the Crossovers are definitely in playoff contention. With Sato in the mix, their middle blocker rotation, already impressive with names like Aby Maraño, Pauline Gaston, Czarina Carandang, and Seth Rodriguez, is getting even stronger.

Sato’s journey to Chery Tiggo comes after a remarkable stint with the Creamline Cool Smashers. She requested her release on November 8, capping off a historic year where Creamline achieved the league’s first-ever Grand Slam. The Cool Smashers granted her early contract termination, even though her deal was supposed to last until December.

Her legacy at Creamline is nothing short of legendary—13 conferences, 10 championships, and countless moments of brilliance on the court. Sato has been a cornerstone of the Cool Smashers’ success over the past six years, known for her consistency and reliability as a middle blocker.

As she steps onto the court with the Crossovers, all eyes will be on how she blends with her new team and continues to elevate her game. Volleyball fans, mark your calendars and get ready for some thrilling action because Risa Sato’s next chapter is just beginning!