Photo credit: PVL

The Creamline Cool Smashers have done it again! In a thrilling, nail-biting match, Creamline claimed their 10th Premier Volleyball League (PVL) championship, cementing their status as one of the most dominant teams in Philippine volleyball history. On Thursday night, they secured an unprecedented Grand Slam after a heart-pounding, come-from-behind victory over Cignal in the PVL Invitational Finals.

The five-set showdown at the Smart Araneta Coliseum had fans on the edge of their seats as the Cool Smashers battled it out in a match that truly tested their grit and determination. Creamline emerged victorious with scores of 21-25, 25-17, 20-25, 26-24, and 15-13, proving once again why they are the team to beat.

But this win wasn't just about lifting another trophy. This victory was historic, marking Creamline as the first team to sweep all three PVL titles in a single season—an achievement that had never been accomplished before. From the All-Filipino Conference to the Reinforced Conference, and finally, the Invitational, the Cool Smashers have been unstoppable.

The game itself was nothing short of spectacular. Jema Galanza, in only her second game back with the team, delivered the game-winning point with a powerful off-the-block hit that sent the crowd into a frenzy. More than half of the coliseum was filled with ecstatic Creamline fans, their cheers echoing throughout the venue as white confetti rained down, signaling a celebration worthy of this monumental moment.

Despite a fierce comeback attempt by Cignal, who pushed the game to a deciding set, Creamline’s composure never wavered. Credit goes to Coach Sherwin Meneses, whose timely strategic timeout allowed the Cool Smashers to regroup and refocus, showcasing the team’s championship experience from 13 previous finals appearances.

Kyle Negrito, the team's playmaker, summed it up perfectly: “This victory means so much to us. Coming into this conference, we knew our biggest advantage was how long we’ve played together. Everyone knows their role, and we all respect each other so much.” Negrito's brilliant play earned her the Best Setter award and Finals MVP, a well-deserved recognition after leading her team to victory.

Import Erica Staunton also shined with 29 points in an epic showdown against Cignal’s MJ Perez, who posted a staggering 42 points. Staunton, reflecting on her time with Creamline, became emotional, saying, “I’m going to miss this team. I love this team so much.”

Creamline’s total team effort made this Grand Slam possible. Bernadeth Pons contributed 27 points, while Galanza came alive in the final two sets, scoring 11 points. Even Michele Gumabao, who consistently delivered throughout the season, contributed five points and bagged her first MVP trophy.

While Cignal fought valiantly, with Perez's monster game and contributions from Jackie Acuña and Ces Molina, it wasn’t enough to stop Creamline from making history.

This championship journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Creamline’s Grand Slam bid in 2022 fell short, but the 2024 season became their redemption arc, proving once again why they are the queens of Philippine volleyball. Meneses praised his team, saying, “This was a collective effort. Every player knew their role, and our teamwork was what brought us here.”

With 10 championships in seven years, the Cool Smashers’ legacy is firmly established, but Meneses made it clear—this is only the beginning. Creamline isn’t slowing down, and they’re already setting their sights on more titles.

The road to this historic Grand Slam wasn’t easy, but Creamline’s unwavering determination, mental toughness, and strategic brilliance set them apart. This victory will go down in history, and as they continue to dominate the PVL, one thing is certain—their hunger for success remains as strong as ever.