Bernadeth Pons stayed steady when it mattered most.
With the Creamline Cool Smashers pushed to the limit against the top-seeded PLDT High Speed Hitters, Pons delivered a composed yet explosive performance to anchor the Cool Smashers’ five-set comeback win in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference semifinals.
Pons erupted for 28 points to lead Creamline to a 22-25, 27-25, 19-25, 28-26, 15-10 victory at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, helping her team overcome a match that swung heavily in both directions.
Bernadeth Pons, the Game-Changer
More than just scoring, the veteran wing spiker made her presence felt across all fronts. She tallied 21 attacks, 4 blocks, and 3 aces, while also contributing 22 excellent receptions and 16 digs to keep Creamline within striking distance throughout the match.
Even as PLDT threatened to close things out, Pons did not stop believing that her team could win in crucial moments.
“Alam ko talaga na kaya namin kuhanin ‘yung fourth set. Kahit na lumamang sila, kaya naming humabol. And sobrang thankful lang din kasi grabe din talaga ‘yung effort ng bawat isa. Kasi gusto din talaga ng bawat isa na maipanalo ‘yung game,” she said.
Her clutch showing came on the heels of another solid outing in the play-in round, where she helped Creamline get past Akari to stay alive.
Bernadeth Pons Embodies Creamline’s Reset Mindset
That stretch of performances reflected a team that entered the semifinals with a reset mindset.
“Coming into the semifinals, na-remind kami ni coach na lahat ng mga past games namin, tapos na ’yun eh. 0-0 ulit. So, ’yun, parang sobrang prinepare din talaga namin,” Pons shared.
“Sobrang grateful [din kami] na lumabas ‘yung mga pinag-ensayuhan namin, kahit medyo on and off.”
With momentum on their side, Creamline continues its push in the semifinals, leaning on Pons’ steady presence as they navigate a tightly contested race to the finals.
The Cool Smashers will next face the Cignal Super Spikers on Tuesday, April 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, before taking on the Farm Fresh Foxies on Thursday, April 16, at 4:00 p.m. at the Filoil Centre.
