Michele Gumabao says the Creamline Cool Smashers have moved past the “defending champions” label, focusing all their attention towards the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference playoff push.
Michele Gumabao made it clear that Creamline’s approach to this 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference has nothing to do with the championship banner hanging over their heads.
In a tournament loaded with strong imports and deep rosters, the Cool Smashers are choosing to leave their past achievements behind and focus entirely on what’s in front of them.
Gumabao said the team no longer talks about being the defending champions. Instead, they enter every match with the same respect and urgency as any other team in the field.
“Honestly, kinalimutan na namin,” she shared after Creamline’s four-set win over Nxled. “Hindi namin iniisip na kami ‘yung defending champion. When we step into the game, respect for all of our opponents. Kailangan talaga ibigay ‘yung best namin.”
Work never stops
The former PVL MVP, who had 13 markers in their latest victory, admitted that the Cool Smashers’ toughest opponent so far has sometimes been themselves.
Gumabao stressed that while their championship experience gives them confidence, their day-to-day work has to feel like they are the ones chasing the crown.
“We have to work harder than other teams because they’re also working hard,” she said. “We have to play smarter. Kung masyado kaming relaxed, like in the first set, bumababa talaga ‘yung energy namin. Kailangan composed kami all throughout.”
Creamline’s identity remains intact
It hasn’t been the smoothest campaign so far for Creamline. Yet, the 10-time PVL champions still boasts a 4-2 record, currently good for second-best in the overall standings.
[ALSO READ: Six things we learned from Round 1 of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference]
With this in mind, Gumabao emphasized that the team's success still hinges on collective effort. With every player asked to contribute beyond their position, the Cool Smashers rely heavily on connection, communication, and maturity on the court.
“Kailangan ‘yung focus namin on how to make a point, and contribute in any way we can because volleyball has so many areas where you can step up,” she said.
“We just really have to commit ourselves to all those areas and also help one another. Teamwork talaga siya sa loob.”
[ALSO READ: Alyssa Valdez, Michele Gumabao confident in Creamline preps for PVL Reinforced Conference]
Creamline will look to continue its winning ways against sister team Choco Mucho next Thursday, November 13, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
—
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.