Creamline is team to beat
AS the Premier Volleyball League gears up for its All-Filipino Conference kick-off on Saturday at the Philsports Arena, player movements and team upgrades have set the stage for a 2024-25 season filled with promise and fierce competition.
With most clubs shoring up their rosters through key acquisitions during the off-season and the expected return of some stars from Alas Pilipinas duties, the league is brimming with potential, giving even previously struggling teams a chance to rise.
Creamline, the reigning PVL powerhouse and recent Grand Slam titleholder, remains the team to beat. With their roster largely intact, the Cool Smashers are expected to continue to be the gold standard.
However, several teams have made significant roster changes in hopes of closing the gap, making the upcoming season one of the most balanced and unpredictable yet.
For teams like Cignal, PetroGazz, Choco Mucho, PLDT and Akari, continuity has been the name of the game. Each team has retained most of its core players while making strategic off-season tweaks to enhance depth and versatility.
These minor roster adjustments may play a crucial role in their ability to contend with Creamline’s dominance and maintain a competitive edge.
Chery Tiggo, meanwhile, faces a transition period following the departures of EJ Laure and Buding Duremdes, and Eya Laure still unsigned with her future with the Crossovers remains uncertain.
While the losses are substantial, Chery Tiggo, now handled by coach Norman Miguel, has opted for a youth-focused approach, signing young talents filled with potential.
The strategy highlights the Crossovers’ commitment to long-term development while still aiming to make an impact this season.
The upcoming season will also see the likes of Capital1, Nxled, ZUS Coffee and Farm Fresh out to make an impact. These teams have revamped their rosters during the off-season, bringing in skilled players that inject energy and fresh talent into the league.
In particular, the Thunderbelles’ addition of the league’s first-ever top overall rookie pick Thea Gagate has created significant buzz. The former La Salle star is anticipated to be a game-changer for ZUS Coffee, bringing size, skill, and experience from her time with the national team.
With the support of teammates Jade Gentapa, Gayle Pascual, Dolly Versoza, Clo Mondoñedo and Michelle Gamit, Gagate’s debut and the entry of the comebacking Jovelyn Gonzaga are expected to bring the Thunderbelles the competitive fire they’ve been missing.
The Foxies are another team banking on the breakout potential of key players. Led by the powerful Trisha Tubu and supported by Caitlin Viray, Rizza Cruz, Alyssa Bertolano and Jolina dela Cruz, Farm Fresh aims to break into the league’s top tier with the entry of Jheck Dionela and the seasoned Rachel Anne Daquis.
After a challenging last season, the Foxies determined to surprise the league with a more robust and focused campaign under new coach Benson Bocboc.
After a winless campaign in previous conference, Galeries Tower has made key changes in its approach. Coach Lerma Giron’s squad is building on newfound maturity and camaraderie, essential elements missing in their past campaigns.
Setter Julia Coronel, previously occupied with Alas Pilipinas, adds another dimension to their lineup. With seasoned players like Grazie Bombita, Jewel Encarnacion, Roma Joy Doromal, Ysa Jimenez and Dimdim Pacres, the Highrisers are poised to showcase a refreshed and more competitive game plan.
As each team strengthens its arsenal, the PVL All-Filipino Conference promises not only skill and talent but also intense strategies and unexpected upsets.
Games Saturday;
(Philsports Arena)
4 p.m. – Galeries Tower vs Akari
6:30 p.m. – PetroGazz vs Choco Mucho
