Majoy Baron shone the brightest when the stakes were highest, proving once again why she's one of the most formidable middle blockers in Philippine volleyball.
In a do-or-die quarterfinal match against Chery Tiggo, the 5-foot-11 standout from Concepcion, Tarlac, initially struggled to make her presence felt on the court.
With only five points to her name heading into the deciding fifth set, it seemed Baron might fade into the background as PLDT’s hopes of advancing in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference hung in the balance.
However, true to her reputation as a big-time performer, the one-time UAAP MVP rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
With no more lifelines available, and possibly facing their final moments in the tournament, Baron became the catalyst for PLDT’s comeback.
Trailing 3-4 early in the fifth set, Baron sparked a crucial surge that turned the tide in favor of the High Speed Hitters. She delivered three vital points during a game-changing 4-0 run that transformed a one-point deficit into an 8-4 advantage, a lead PLDT would never relinquish.
The High Speed Hitters went on to secure a thrilling 25-23, 25-27, 15-25, 25-18, 15-9 victory, punching their ticket to the semifinals.
Chery Tiggo’s formidable import, Khat Bell, who had already tallied an impressive 40 points, was gunning for her 41st with her team down 9-13. But Baron, showing her defensive prowess, came up with a game-saving block to clinch match point for PLDT.
For the 28-year-old spiker, thriving under pressure is what defines an athlete. 
“Pinaghugutan ko lang yung experience not only doon sa buong conference but also sa buong volleyball career na pag ganitong pitpitan mas masarap maglaro,” shared the De La Salle University alumna, reflecting on the high-pressure moments.
Baron is no stranger to such situations. She has built a career on stepping up when the stakes are highest.
A three-time UAAP champion with the Lady Spikers and a two-time Best Middle Blocker in the ASEAN Grand Prix, Baron’s decorated career speaks volumes.
As PLDT prepares to face the undefeated Akari squad in the semifinals—a team riding a nine-game winning streak—Baron remains confident. She believes that the High Speed Hitters, with everyone, including Russian import Lena Samoilenko, now fully acclimated to head coach Rald Ricafort’s system, are more than capable of pulling off an upset.
The High Speed Hitters are eyeing their first PVL title, with their previous best finish being a fourth-place showing.
“Naka-adjust kami sa sistema ng PLDT and bumagay yung laro namin and nagtutulungan talaga kami sa training at sa games,” Baron added, underscoring the team’s growing cohesion and determination.
