Creamline’s Bernadeth Pons named PVL Player of the Week after semifinal heroics

Creamline Cool Smashers reaffirmed their status as one of the top contenders in the Premier Volleyball League after opening their All-Filipino Conference semifinal campaign with a thrilling come-from-behind victory on Saturday, April 11, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

In front of a roaring crowd of 12,411 fans, Creamline outlasted their opponents in a five-set battle, 22–25, 27–25, 19–25, 28–26, 15–10, showcasing both resilience and championship poise. The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with momentum swinging back and forth before the Cool Smashers dug deep in the latter stages to secure the crucial opening win of the semifinal series.

Leading the charge was Bernadeth Pons, who delivered a career-defining performance when her team needed it most. The veteran outside hitter erupted for 28 points built on 21 attacks, four blocks, and three service aces, while also anchoring the defensive end with 22 excellent receptions and 16 digs. Her all-around brilliance proved instrumental in keeping Creamline within striking distance before taking over in the decisive moments.

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“Alam ko talaga na kaya naming kuhanin yung fourth set. Kahit na lumamang sila, kaya naming humabol. And sobrang thankful lang din kasi grabe din talaga yung effort ng bawat isa. Kasi gusto din talaga ng bawat isa na maipanalo yung game,” Pons said in the postmatch press conference.

Pons’ standout outing in the semifinals builds on her strong form heading into the round. Just days earlier, the 2024 Reinforced Conference Most Valuable Player played a key role in Creamline’s must-win Play-In victory over the Akari Chargers, where she contributed 13 points and 17 digs to help her squad advance.

Semis stage, PONS takeover. 💖🍦

Bernadeth Pons leads the charge as our Player of the Game!

A pink volleybelle always showing up big when the stakes are higher. 🏐✨#PerfectEffortSaGoodVibes#CreamlineCoolSmashers #CreamlineCreamyIceCream #PVL2026 pic.twitter.com/dxMdiKSfl6

— Creamline Cool Smashers (@CoolSmashers) April 11, 2026

At 29, Pons appears to be peaking at the perfect time for Creamline, combining offensive firepower with defensive consistency. Her leadership on the court has been vital, especially in high-pressure situations where experience and composure often spell the difference between victory and defeat.

Her recent heroics did not go unnoticed, as she was named the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week, an award presented by sportswriters covering the league. Pons edged out strong contenders including fellow Creamline star Alyssa Valdez, as well as Cignal HD Spikers standouts Erika Santos and Vanie Gandler, and Farm Fresh Foxies scorer Trisha Tubu.

Beyond the individual accolades, Pons emphasized the team’s collective mindset entering the semifinals—a fresh start despite their previous results in the conference.

“Coming into the semifinals, na-remind kami ni coach na lahat ng mga past games namin, tapos na ‘yun eh. 0-0 ulit. So, ‘yun parang sobrang prinepare din talaga. Sobrang grateful din kami na lumabas yung mga pinag-ensayuhan namin, kahit medyo on and off,” she added.

Creamline’s ability to reset mentally and execute under pressure was evident throughout the match, particularly in the tightly contested fourth set where they fended off multiple challenges before forcing a decider. In the fifth set, the Cool Smashers asserted control early and never looked back, riding on Pons’ momentum and timely contributions from the rest of the squad.

With the series now in their favor, Creamline will look to carry this momentum into their next outing as they aim to secure a finals berth. Pons, in particular, will be expected to maintain her high level of play when the Cool Smashers return to action on Tuesday, April 14, once again at the Mall of Asia Arena.

As the semifinals intensify, Creamline’s blend of experience, depth, and clutch performance continues to make them a formidable force, with Pons emerging as a key figure in their pursuit of yet another PVL title.

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