MANILA — Criss Cross King Crunchers stamped their dominance in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, capturing their maiden Open title and completing a historic double championship run while Jude Garcia etched his name in league history with a fifth consecutive Most Valuable Player award.
The King Crunchers outlasted Savouge Spin Doctors in a gripping winner-take-all Game 3, 28-26, 25-17, 26-28, 25-23, on Sunday at the Playtime Filoil Centre in San Juan, sealing the franchise’s second straight conference championship following their Invitational Conference triumph.
Criss Cross leaned on a strong opening push, edging out a marathon first set before asserting control in the second behind the combined efforts of Noel Kampton and Jude Garcia. However, Savouge refused to fold, rallying in the third frame as Louie Ramirez delivered in crunch time to extend the match.
The Spin Doctors carried their momentum into the fourth, even taking a slim mid-set advantage after a pair of surprise attacks from setter Michael Imperial. Criss Cross, though, answered with timely hits, with Garcia restoring order during a crucial stretch.
With the match hanging in the balance late in the fourth, both squads traded points until veteran middle blocker Kim Malabunga stepped up. He converted a quick attack before shutting down Ramirez at the net, sealing the championship for Criss Cross.
Garcia once again played a pivotal role in the title run, earning Finals Most Valuable Player honors after averaging 21 points in the series, including a 27-point explosion in the deciding match.
The prolific scorer also capped the conference with his fifth consecutive MVP award, leading the league in total points, spiking efficiency, and service aces while maintaining a strong presence on defense.
Several players were also recognized for their individual performances. Savouge’s Shawie Caritativo and Criss Cross standout Alche Gupiteo were named Best Outside Spikers, while JP Bugaoan and Lloyd Josafat took the Best Middle Blocker honors.
Adrian Villados of Criss Cross earned Best Setter recognition, and AEP-Cabstars’ Vince Lorenzo was named Best Libero./PN
