Rookie Nica Celis keeps a grounded mindset after a breakout showing that helped the Creamline Cool Smashers clinch a top-three Pool B finish in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Rookie Nica Celis had her best game yet for the Creamline Cool Smashers in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.
The 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft made the most of her limited minutes, scoring five points in just two sets to help Creamline secure a four-set win over Chery Tiggo EV, 23-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-17, in the PVL Reinforced Conference at the FilOil EcoOil Arena on Tuesday, October 28.
As she continues to earn her place in the Cool Smashers lineup, Celis is keeping her mindset simple.
“Honestly, mindset ko is never expect anything. I always have to be ready, I just have to keep working,” Celis told One Sports. “If I expect too much and I don’t get what I want, masakit. So, at the end of the day, no expectations, trabaho lang.”
[ALSO READ: Nica Celis admits ‘unreal’ moment after joining Creamline through 2025 PVL Draft]
Gratitude and growth
Celis admitted she was moved to tears when American import Courtney Schwan recognized her hard work during the post-game press conference.
“Every day in practice she’s [Nica] very focused on getting better, she’s very diligent, and you can tell that she’s focused on the things she needs to do better. I’m very happy for her that she had a really good game after all the hard work she’s put in,” said Schwan.
The former UP standout described the moment as one of the most satisfying in her young PVL career.
“I was surprised, actually. Nung sinabi niya ‘yun, medyo nag-build up na ‘yung tears sa eyes. Ang sarap lang sa pakiramdam na ma-appreciate ‘yung work na nilalagay ko sa court,” she shared.
Nica Celis readies to serve the ball during Creamline's match against Chery Tiggo EV. | Photo: PVL
Still, the young middle blocker knows the real work is just beginning.
“I still have to keep working. Parang ‘yun lang ‘yung only motivation ko na naglaro ako ganito, I know mas tataas pa ‘yung expectations sakin,” she said.
“But either way, I have to focus and not think about what they want from me, but I have to think about how I can strive to do more to help my team.”
With the victory, Creamline improved to 3-2 in Pool B, tying Petro Gazz but taking the third spot with nine points due to a higher points ratio.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.