Kim Malabunga is on a mission to reclaim his dominance at the net.
After an injury-riddled campaign that saw him sidelined for most of last season, the Criss Cross middle blocker is eager to return to peak form and lead his squad to a championship in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.
Malabunga’s setback came in the worst possible way—a freak accident during warmups in last year’s Invitational Conference opener. A stray ball sent him crashing awkwardly to the floor, resulting in a dislocated right ankle and a sprained left ankle. The gruesome injuries forced him to sit out for two months, robbing Criss Cross of one of its most reliable defensive anchors and offensive weapons.
He made a late return in the semifinals, but by then, he was far from the force he once was. Though the King Crunchers managed to reach the finals, they ultimately fell to Cignal in a straight-set sweep.
But on Sunday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Malabunga offered a glimpse of his old self, powering Criss Cross to a commanding 25-21, 25-19, 25-21 victory over Alpha Insurance. The former National University standout put up a performance reminiscent of his best days, tallying an ultra-efficient 13-of-17 attacking clip, two blocks, and two service aces for a game-high 17 points.
“Syempre sobrang eager kasi two months ako halos nawala nun nung na-injure ako. Ginagawa ko lang ‘yung best ko para makatulong sa team ngayon and makabawi ako sa kanila from last conference na nawala ako,” Malabunga said, determined to make up for lost time.
While his return to form is promising, the Alas Pilipinas stalwart admitted that he is still working towards full recovery.
“Hindi ko masasabing 100 percent na kasi minsan sumasakit sakit pa rin siya, nandun pa rin ‘yung sakit. Siguro kailangan ko pa i-therapy sa training and paghandaan pa sa mga susunod na games para masabi kong 100 percent na,” he shared.
“Siguro mga 90 percent na, kasi may sumasakit pa eh,” he added.
Despite the lingering discomfort, Malabunga’s presence has been a major boost for Criss Cross, which is in its third conference in the country’s premier men’s volleyball league. With his steady improvement, the King Crunchers are hopeful that their bid for a first-ever franchise title will finally come to fruition.
For now, Malabunga remains locked in—determined to put his injuries behind him and fully embrace the role of Criss Cross’ defensive anchor and offensive catalyst. If his latest performance is any indication, his best form is just around the corner.
