MANILA, Philippines – They are inevitable.
The Creamline Cool Smashers, missing three superstars with seven combined PVL MVP awards, still defied all odds after downing the Akari Chargers in straight sets, 25-15, 25-23, 25-17, in the 2024 Reinforced Conference knockout final for their record-extending ninth title on Wednesday, September 4.
Bernadeth Pons, who bagged both the conference Most Valuable Player and Finals MVP awards, erupted for 19 points built on 14 attacks and half of Creamline’s 10 service aces.
Import Erica Staunton added 13 points and Michele Gumabao also chipped in 10 points for the Cool Smashers.
Feeding off momentum from a 25-15 first-set rout that featured a 7-0 finish, Creamline kept a chokehold on its precious momentum, rising to a 14-7 start that was enough cushion to stave off Akari’s late comeback attempt that ended on a Kamille Cal service error for a 25-23 second-set escape.
The Cool Smashers then pulled away midway through the third, turning a 9-8 lead to a 13-9 advantage off a 4-1 run, ending with a Gumabao off-the-block hit.
From there, the volleyball powerhouse stayed in full control on the way to a sweep of the knockout finale.
Pons led the undermanned Creamline all tournament, stepping up big despite the absence of MVPs Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Alyssa Valdez.
The double MVP honors marked Pons’ first individual recognition in the league just a year after joining Creamline following a long stint in beach volleyball.
The Akari Chargers, who had hoped to complete a perfect tournament run, fell short of a breakthrough championship after reaching the title round following a controversial semifinal win.
Import Oly Okaro led the way with 14 points, as Best Outside Hitter Grethcel Soltones scored 9.
Ivy Lacsina, who was touted as a possible MVP candidate, got checked to just 4 points.
Meanwhile, the Cignal HD Spikers extended their PVL record to five franchise bronze medals after trouncing the PLDT High Speed Hitters in four sets, 20-25, 25-19, 25-18, 25-23.
Best Import MJ Perez ended her latest Philippine stint on a high note, tallying 26 points, 11 excellent receptions, and 9 excellent digs, while former PVL MVP Ces Molina added 20.
Four-time Best Setter Gel Cayuna tallied 16 excellent sets and tied teammate Jackie Acuña with 8 points each.
Vietnam-bound reinforcement Lena Samoilenko gave her all in a farewell performance with a game-high 35 points as captain Kath Arado chipped in 17 excellent digs and 13 excellent receptions. – Rappler.com