In a night that will be remembered for its sheer drama and extraordinary athleticism, Marina Tushova has etched her name into the annals of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history.
On Thursday, the Russian outside spiker shattered records and expectations alike, amassing an awe-inspiring 45 points in a single game – the highest ever recorded in the league's history.
Surpassing the previous record of 44 points set by Priscilla Rivera during the 2022 Reinforced Conference, Tushova's phenomenal performance led Capital1 to a thrilling victory over Choco Mucho, sealing the game in five sets, 13-25, 25-21, 18-25, 25-20, 15-13.
Her historic 45th point not only secured her place in the record books but also propelled the Solar Spikers to their second win in the 2024 Reinforced Conference.
The Philsports Arena buzzed with anticipation and excitement as Tushova, a towering 6-foot reinforcement, brought an electrifying energy to the court.
Under the guidance of head coach Roger Gorayeb, she unleashed her full potential, turning the match into a showcase of skill, determination, and emotional intensity.
“I’m not that emotional as a player, but here I needed it. The team helps me with it. Every day, even in practice, I come in and the girls are always smiling and asking me to show the same emotions,” Tushova shared, reflecting on the emotional journey that fueled her record-breaking night.
“So here, I can see the difference when I play with emotions and when I don’t. Coach, you told me the same, right? You told me you wanted to hear me. So when everyone can hear me, I do a better job.”
Her ability to channel stress and pressure into her performance was evident as she hammered down 43 attacks, alongside one block and one ace.
Tushova's defensive prowess was equally remarkable, with 18 excellent receptions and 12 digs, proving her versatility and all-around dominance on the court.
“I couldn’t sleep last night, and I couldn’t eat today. It was like this. I was fighting with my stress all these days. Yes, it was another preparation. Some things I cannot share with you all, but it was different,” Tushova revealed.
Despite the magnitude of her achievement, Tushova remains grounded and focused on the road ahead.
With Capital1 standing at 2-2 and currently holding third place in Pool B, she views this record-breaking game as a stepping stone rather than a pinnacle.
“All game I felt like I wasn’t doing enough. That’s why I kept pushing myself to do more. So about these 45 points, it’s good for sure, but it doesn’t mean I’m at the top of my career or better than anyone else. It’s just one game, and today it was like this,” she stated.
As the Solar Spikers prepare to face ZUS Coffee in their next match, Tushova’s extraordinary performance serves as both inspiration and motivation.
“I’m proud of myself, I really am. But for now, I don’t feel it at all,” she concluded after the grueling two-hour, 33-minute marathon.
