Can Creamline’s projected starting six bring the Cool Smashers back to PVL glory?

After a rare championship drought in 2025, the Creamline Cool Smashers are positioning themselves for a familiar role in 2026 — contenders with something to prove — as they enter the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference armed with a projected starting six built on experience, balance, and renewed hunger.

Despite extending their league-record streak to 19 consecutive podium finishes, Creamline endured an uncharacteristic title-less year across all PVL conferences in 2025. The spotlight instead shone on the PLDT High Speed Hitters and Petro Gazz Angels, who split the season’s four championships and effectively disrupted what had long been Creamline’s near-monopoly on PVL dominance. For a franchise accustomed to setting the standard, the setback served less as a decline and more as a wake-up call.

Central to Creamline’s recalibration is the acquisition of Jeniffer Nierva, widely regarded as one of the best defensive specialists in the country. The former Chery Tiggo Crossover brings elite floor coverage, sharper serve reception, and faster defensive reads — areas where Creamline showed vulnerability last season, particularly in extended rallies and transition defense.

Analysts from multiple volleyball outlets have noted that Nierva’s arrival could be the single most impactful offseason move in the All-Filipino Conference, addressing a weakness without sacrificing offensive structure.

Up front, Bernadeth Pons returns energized after a successful stint with Alas Pilipinas beach, highlighted by a Southeast Asian Games beach volleyball gold medal. Her dual-discipline experience has sharpened her all-around game, and her presence adds composure and flexibility to Creamline’s wing rotation. 

Pons, the former 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference MVP and Finals MVP with Creamline has openly spoken about the team’s renewed mindset, emphasizing that early January training camps focused on cohesion and accountability after last season’s frustrations.

Holding the middle is Bea De Leon, whose value extends beyond box scores. A consistent force at the net, the former UAAP Season 81 Finals MVP remains one of the league’s most reliable blockers and an underrated offensive option in quick sets. Her ability to disrupt opposing attacks has long been a pillar of Creamline’s defensive identity, and her leadership provides continuity as the team integrates new pieces.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

A new volleybelle is stepping into the pink

At 166 cm, a battle-tested libero who plays with heart, grit, and control.

A champion mindset. A steady presence on the court.

Welcome to the GV-Kada, Jen Nierva!#CreamlineCoolSmashers #CreamlineCreamyIceCream pic.twitter.com/chsy2cfw1m

— Creamline Cool Smashers (@CoolSmashers) January 9, 2026

GOLD FOR CREAMLINE NEXT?

Fresh off their SEA Games beach volleyball gold medal win, Bernadeth Pons and Dij Rodriguez expressed their clear intention to help bring Creamline back on top after a difficult 2025. #PVL2026 @spinph pic.twitter.com/rU1kIB0mPv

— John Mark Garcia (@johnmarkdg_) January 12, 2026

Guiding the offense is Jia De Guzman, the reigning Alas Pilipinas captain and widely considered the best setter of her generation. De Guzman’s return ensures tempo control, efficient ball distribution, and tactical flexibility — critical in an All-Filipino Conference where depth and system execution often separate contenders from champions. With De Guzman orchestrating, Creamline regains its ability to vary pace and exploit mismatches, a hallmark of its championship runs.

On the wings, Jema Galanza’s return from injury restores a proven closer to the lineup. When healthy, the two-time PVL MVP and former Adamson standout has consistently delivered in high-pressure moments, combining power with court awareness that few defenders can neutralize. Alongside her, Tots Carlos remains the offensive constant — a scorer capable of producing across rotations and carrying stretches when the offense stalls. Together, they form one of the most feared wing tandems in the league.

This projected starting six reflects more than just talent; it reflects intent. Creamline’s offseason moves signal a strategic response to its sixth-place finish in the 2025 Reinforced Conference, its lowest placement since joining the professional ranks. Rather than overhauling the roster, the Cool Smashers opted for precision — reinforcing defense, restoring health, and leaning into their championship core.

Historically, Creamline’s pedigree speaks for itself. The Cool Smashers are the winningest franchise in PVL history, owning 10 league championships across various conferences and more finals appearances than any other team, and the only team to win a Grand Slam by winning all three conferences in 2024. Since their debut, they have built a culture defined by consistency, adaptability, and postseason excellence — traits that remain intact despite last year’s setbacks.

With the All-Filipino Conference placing a premium on chemistry and system play over import-driven firepower, Creamline appears well-suited for a return to form. With the league losing two of its powerhouse teams in Chery Tiggo and Petro Gazz, the Cool Smashers are poised to remain one of the top teams of the PVL. 

For the rest of the league, the message is familiar — and unsettling: the Cool Smashers are reloaded, refocused, and once again ready to chase the crown.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!