In a dramatic showdown that left fans at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on the edge of their seats, Tots Carlos of Creamline turned the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) into her own personal playground.
With a breathtaking display of skill and determination, she etched her name in the annals of volleyball history, delivering a record-breaking performance that will be talked about for years to come.
With a staggering 38-point outburst on Tuesday evening, Carlos set a new benchmark for local players in a single PVL game, surpassing the previous record held by Sisi Rondina.
However, despite the individual accolades, Carlos remained steadfast in her humility, attributing her success to the collective effort of her teammates, the Cool Smashers.
"For me, those 38 points weren't just personal achievements; they were team points," remarked the 25-year-old wing spiker. "No matter how many points we score individually, we're always happy as long as it contributes to the team's success. The team always comes first."
Carlos' remarkable feat not only broke records but also played a pivotal role in Creamline's stunning comeback victory against Cignal.
Trailing by two sets, the Cool Smashers clawed their way back into contention, eventually securing a thrilling 3-2 win after nearly three hours of intense competition.
Reflecting on her historic performance, Carlos emphasized the importance of team success over individual milestones.
"I'm grateful for opportunities like these, but our priority is always the team," she explained. "Regardless of who scores 38 points, as long as the team wins, that's all that matters to us."
Her last four points proved to be the most crucial, as Carlos rallied her team from a three-point deficit to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. With nerves of steel and unwavering determination, she propelled the Cool Smashers to a thrilling 16-14 triumph in the decisive fifth set.
"It's moments like these that remind us why we never want to lose," Carlos reflected. "Coach always tells us to give our best, whether we score points or not. I just wanted the team to win, and I'm happy we executed when it mattered most."
