Creamline overcame Nxled in four sets, winning 25-18, 25-23, 16-25, 25-19, to start their preseason journey with a statement performance. While the result itself was encouraging, what made the victory even more significant for the league’s most successful franchise was the way they achieved it.
The Cool Smashers secured the win without needing to rely on several of their biggest stars, as Alyssa Valdez, Tots Carlos, Bea de Leon, and Pangs Panaga were not fielded during the match.
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Instead, Creamline used the opportunity to showcase the depth of their roster and provide valuable playing time to players who have traditionally had fewer opportunities on the court.
The move was made possible by the new PVL rule requiring all teams to utilize all 14 active players in every game. Rather than viewing the regulation as a challenge, Creamline’s coaching staff and management used it as an opportunity to evaluate their expanded roster and give developing players important experience in competitive situations.
Among those who benefited from the opportunity were players such as Lorie Bernardo and Nica Celis, who were able to step into larger roles and demonstrate their abilities against a competitive Nxled side.
Cool Smashers head coach Sherwin Meneses assured fans that the team’s biggest names will still be part of the PVL On Tour experience, explaining that the preseason tournament provides the perfect platform to maximize their entire 21-player roster.
Meneses emphasized that the team’s approach is not only focused on winning but also on ensuring that every player contributes and gains valuable experience throughout the tournament.
ALYSSA, BDL, TOTS, PANGS TO PLAY 'ON TOUR' 🍦
Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses assured the participation of Alyssa Valdez, Bea de Leon, Tots Carlos and Pangs Panaga in the next stops of the PVL on Tour.
"For sure, makakalaro sila sa second game o third game. Siyempre, para… pic.twitter.com/L8TTi68mKa
— John Mark Garcia (@johnmarkdg_) July 9, 2026
“For sure, makakalaro sila sa second game o third game. Siyempre, para sa fans naman ‘yung ‘On Tour.’ Pipilitin talaga naming makapag-perform nang maganda kasama sila,” Meneses said.
The absence of Creamline’s veteran leaders also highlighted the franchise’s continued commitment to developing young talent and maintaining a strong pipeline of players capable of contributing at the highest level.
In recent seasons, Creamline has placed significant emphasis on building for the future by adding promising young players to complement its established stars. The team’s recent acquisitions include rookie Barbie Jamili, former Cignal Super Spikers players Ishie Lalongisip and Erin Pangilinan, as well as former Petro Gazz Angels setter Donnalyn Paralejas.
The young additions have already shown flashes of potential, but the challenge for Creamline’s management and coaching staff is helping them adjust to the expectations that come with playing for the PVL’s most successful organization.
Creamline has built a championship culture over the years, and every player who joins the franchise is expected to embrace the team’s high standards, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
Meneses believes the new players have responded positively to the environment and are showing the hunger and determination needed to succeed.
“Naging competitive pa sila nu’ng napunta sila sa Creamline. Nasa Creamline na sila, iba ‘yung kultura dito. Masisipag ‘yung mga bata. Masaya kami na sila ‘yung napunta sa Creamline. Kailangan talaga nilang magtrabaho and mag-enjoy sila kasama ‘yung Creamline. ‘Yun naman ‘yung maganda sa mga bata, talagang malakas din ‘yung loob. Sumusunod sila. Hopefully, magtuluy-tuloy ‘yung performance nila na maganda,” he added.
The victory over Nxled provided an early indication that Creamline’s strength extends beyond its star players. While Valdez, Carlos, de Leon, and Panaga remain central figures in the team’s championship ambitions, the emergence of reliable contributors could prove crucial during the long PVL season.
The Cool Smashers will now have an extended period to continue refining their lineup and integrating their new players before returning to action. Their next PVL On Tour preseason conference match is scheduled against the Capital1 Solar Spikers on August 8 at the City of Santiago.
With a deep roster, a winning culture, and a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, Creamline has once again shown why they remain one of the teams to beat in Philippine volleyball.
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