Alleiah Malaluan found a silver lining despite the PLDT High Speed Hitters’ tough loss to the Creamline Cool Smashers.
Coming off a career performance, the rookie remains confident as the High Speed Hitters head into a crucial stretch in the round-robin semifinals of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
The ninth overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft delivered her best game as a pro, but it came in a heartbreaking five-set loss to Creamline, 25-22, 25-27, 25-19, 26-28, 10-15, in front of a packed crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Malaluan led the team in scoring, finishing with a career-high 23 points built on 19 attacks and 4 kill blocks, while also tallying 11 excellent digs and 26 excellent receptions in a strong all-around effort.
Alleiah Malaluan Shows She’s Ready for the Bright Lights
Facing a multi-titled Creamline side, Malaluan focused on staying composed and relying on her coaches’ guidance.
“What I think worked for me during our game against Creamline is that I always reminded myself to stay focused and calm,” Malaluan told Tiebreaker Times. “At the same time, I kept in mind the instructions given to me by the coaches.”
Despite the loss, Malaluan remains unfazed, drawing confidence from her performance as PLDT faces a do-or-die situation moving forward. The High Speed Hitters must now win their remaining games against the Farm Fresh Foxies and the Cignal Super Spikers to qualify for the finals.
With their finals hopes on the line, the High Speed Hitters will need to deliver in their remaining assignments to stay in contention.
“I will try my best to keep reminding myself of what I am capable of and to just play—knowing that I am guided by my coaches and teammates on the court.”
