For Jen Nierva, joining the Creamline Cool Smashers ahead of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference was more than just a roster move. It was an opportunity to play alongside some of the Philippines’ legendary volleyball players—Alyssa Valdez, Michele Gumabao, Jia De Guzman, and Denden Lazaro-Revilla—and a chance to elevate her own game.
Following the disbandment of the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, Nierva chose to sign with the Cool Smashers, drawn not only by the team’s winning tradition but also by the opportunity to learn from players she once admired from afar.
“I have an opportunity to play among the best in our country. ‘Di mo siya makukuha palagi, ‘yung opportunity to play with them. Nung nag-reach out ‘yung Creamline, ‘yun din ‘yung factor na tiningnan ko,” the 26-year-old libero shared.
‘Surreal’ Transition for Jen Nierva
A former UAAP Best Libero from National University, Jen Nierva admitted that the transition from watching her idols on television to training and competing beside them still feels surreal.
“Minsan nga sa training, na-realize ko, who would’ve thought na magiging teammates ko sina Ate Jia, Ate Alyssa, MG, at Ate Denden na pinapanood ko lang sa TV? And now, I’m playing with them,” she said.
That experience has deepened Nierva’s appreciation for the work ethic and professionalism of her new teammates, even with their veteran status.
“Nakikita ko sila araw-araw, paano sila magtrabaho, paano nila ako ini-inspire. Iba ‘yung work ethic nila kahit magaling na sila, kahit veterans na sila. They’re always open to learning pa rin,” she added.
Jen Nierva Speaks Highly of Creamline Culture
Beyond the star power, Nierva pointed to Creamline’s culture as a significant factor in her decision to join the team.
“Maraming big names, [pero] ‘di lang ‘yung big names. Pati yung culture and family na tinatawag nila sa Creamline. Before pa ako pumasok, ‘yun din ‘yung talagang naka-enganyo sa’kin na… I also want to be a part of that family and experience [what] it feels like to be taken care [of] by Rebisco,” she said.
Nierva’s move to Creamline represents an opportunity to test herself in a new environment, learn directly from established leaders, and absorb habits that could further elevate her game.
Jen Nierva is set to make her Creamline debut against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Thursday, February 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the FilOil Centre.
