Creamline’s pursuit of another championship in the upcoming Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Finals is reinforced by the return of two key players who missed their Grand Slam title run last year.

“Honestly, it’s been a while since I last played in the Finals, so it feels great to be back,” said Tots Carlos in Filipino, who was sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to knee issues. The Cool Smashers secured a historic championship in her absence.

Carlos credited the team’s dedication and hard work for their record-extending 14th Finals appearance in the league organized by Sports Vision.

“Those who work hard get to experience moments like this. The effort we put in every day – especially us who have battled injuries – is now translating into our games. I’m beyond excited and thankful for everyone who supported me,” she said.

Meanwhile, Alyssa Valdez, who endured a longer recovery from her knee injury, shares the same excitement in competing for their 11th PVL championship.

“I’m very proud. This is my first time back in the Finals in a while,” said Valdez in Filipino, whose leadership has been instrumental in steering the Cool Smashers to another championship bout.

She highlighted the team’s journey, acknowledging the challenges they faced along the way.

“Every conference, we write a different story of how we make it to the Finals. This one is another chapter, and we’re eager to finish it strong. We’ve faced struggles behind the scenes, but we’ve stuck together, and that’s what we’re counting on to get us through this series,” added Valdez.

With Carlos and Valdez fully recovered, Creamline remains confident despite Jema Galanza’s recent health concerns. The depth of their roster – bolstered by Bernadeth Pons, Bea de Leon, Kyle Negrito, Michele Gumabao, Lorie Bernardo and Rose Vargas – ensures they remain a formidable force against the Petro Gazz Angels.

While Creamline is brimming with confidence, Carlos and Valdez remain wary of the challenge posed by Petro Gazz, particularly with the presence of Fil-American spiker Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo and MJ Phillips, among others.

“It’s always a classic battle whenever we face Petro Gazz in the Finals. We know it’s going to be tough, so we need to work even harder,” said Valdez.

She also believes the Finals will come down to heart and resilience.

“Both teams have taken different paths to get here. The team that plays with more heart will have the edge. But one thing’s for sure – Creamline will give everything we have,” Valdez said.

Regardless of the Finals outcome, Valdez emphasized that the PVL is the ultimate winner, as the league continues to produce thrilling matchups and showcase top-tier volleyball talent.

“It’s proof that the PVL has grown tremendously and continues to develop great teams and players. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a new or veteran team – if you have the heart and determination, you’ll find yourself in the Finals,” she said.

With everything on the line, Creamline and Petro Gazz are set to deliver another unforgettable championship showdown, starting Tuesday, April 8, in Game 1 of the best-of-three series at the Araneta Coliseum.