Denden Lazaro-Revilla had mixed emotions when she faced her former team, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, but she remained focused on anchoring the Creamline Cool Smashers in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Despite facing off against her former team Choco Mucho, Creamline libero Denden Lazaro-Revilla was all business on Thursday night.
Lazaro-Revilla ably patrolled the floor for the defending champions, helping her side pull off a straight-set 25-17, 25-22, 25-19 stunner over the Flying Titans in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
The seasoned defensive specialist delivered the goods with 17 excellent receptions for the Cool Smashers, who picked up a much-needed victory that bolstered their semis bid with an 8-2 record, good for solo second.
Though feeling a bit strange facing Choco Mucho, Lazaro-Revilla remained laser-focused on her mission – leading Creamline to victory.
“In a way, it feels weird, kasi it’s kinda fresh. Ilang months pa lang kami with Creamline. But ‘yun nga, when we’re inside the court, it’s all business. Outside, we’re happy for one another,” said Revilla.
“I’m very happy that we got this win today. A very crucial win for us, especially going to the semis. This win boosts our chances and at the same time, ‘yung momentum namin moving forward.”
Lazaro-Revilla became a part of Choco Mucho in 2020, spending three years with the Rebisco-backed club team.
Throughout her stint with the Flying Titans, the former Ateneo Lady Eagle served as a key cog on defense, but she eventually saw her minutes dwindle in the 2023 Second All-Filipino Conference.
Lazaro-Revilla then found a new home in Creamline, where she was welcomed with open arms.
“Really, it does feel like home. Pagtapak ko sa training, parang pina-feel nila na welcome ako sa team,” said Lazaro-Revilla.
“The coaches, my teammates, and the management, they made it feel like I’m part of Creamline even though I was from Choco Mucho. Yeah, one big happy family.”
Lazaro-Revilla aims to continue being a steady presence for the Cool Smashers, who seek to secure a semis berth when they take on fellow contender PLDT on April 25, Thursday.