Creamline's star player Alyssa Valdez made a triumphant return to the court after a seven-month hiatus due to a knee injury, leading her team to secure a spot in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference final.
The Rebisco-backed squad's fiery combination of skill and spirit proved to be too much for their opponents, Kinh B?c-B?c Ninh, as they cruised to a convincing straight-sets victory on Tuesday evening.
The absence of Alyssa Valdez was felt deeply during Creamline's championship run in the 2023 PVL All-Filipino Conference earlier in the year. However, the Cool Smashers' joy was evident as their inspirational captain finally returned to help them defend their coveted Invitationals crown, which they had clinched last year against KingWhale of Taiwan.
Jia De Guzman, the team's decorated playmaker from Ateneo, expressed her delight at having Valdez back on the court, saying, "It's still different having her inside and contributing points, especially when the situation is close and crucial."
De Guzman acknowledged that while Valdez's guidance from the sidelines was valuable, her presence on the court elevated the team's performance, and every player felt an increased sense of responsibility to step up in the game.
The match at Philsports Arena witnessed an awe-inspiring performance by both De Guzman and Valdez. De Guzman masterfully orchestrated the plays, providing 17 excellent sets and contributing three points to ensure a convincing 25-23, 25-23, 25-17 victory over Kinh B?c-B?c Ninh. Valdez, on the other hand, proved she had lost none of her prowess despite the long break, firing 11 points on 11 attacks and displaying exceptional defensive skills with 11 excellent receptions.
The win extended Creamline's winning streak to seven games in the Invitationals, a testament to their cohesive play and Valdez's impactful return. With an impressive 4-0 record in the semifinals standings, the Cool Smashers now look forward to the finals with renewed determination and confidence.
For Alyssa Valdez, the moment was especially poignant, having spent months on the sidelines nursing her injury.
Speaking about her comeback to the grandest stage of the country's women's professional volleyball league, Valdez said, "I missed it. It's so much different to play and be here, inside the court, playing with your teammates than not being able to suit up or even wear the jersey."
Her return was not just about personal triumph; she was eager to contribute her best to the team and support the talented players like Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Ced Domingo in carrying the scoring load.
As Creamline advances to the finals, the team is fueled by a renewed sense of unity and an unwavering determination to clinch the championship once again.
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