After three years that took her across different systems, teammates, and competitions, Jia De Guzman is set to return to the Premier Volleyball League as the primary setter of the Creamline Cool Smashers in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
De Guzman played in Japan, where she won two medals with the Denso Airybees. Following her overseas stint, she shifted her focus to national team duties, serving as the Alas Pilipinas Women’s team captain and becoming a constant presence in international tournaments.
“Actually, magti-three years na akong wala sa PVL, but it doesn’t mean I wasn’t watching when the other teams were evolving also. So, very excited talaga ako to see how much PVL has changed, and I would really love to embrace the challenge, so excited kami lahat maglaro,” De Guzman said.
Jia De Guzman Concerned About Adjustments
Despite her experience, the veteran setter admitted that reintegrating into Creamline’s system has brought its own concerns. With several players returning and roles still being defined, the adjustment process remains ongoing.
“Kasi now na maraming bumalik sa team, and we’re just trying to get used to [playing] with whoever yung makasama namin sa loob ng court. So whatever the coaches ask from us, whether it’s me inside or Kyle [Negrito] inside, we’re just really ready to support each other,” she said.
Finding a Rhythm Back at Creamline
The absence of pressure from within the team has helped Jia De Guzman ease into her comeback, even as she continues to find her rhythm. De Guzman remains confident that once she fully returns to game shape, she will be ready to give Creamline whatever it needs, whether it is directing the offense, setting up hitters, or providing leadership on the floor.
“With all of the teams stepping up, with a new Creamline team coming together, parang I’m also trying to find my way with the team. Parang hopefully, yung mga natutunan din namin sa international, madala ko rin sa PVL and sa Creamline,” the Alas Pilipinas captain said.
“But at the same time, whatever the team needs from me, I will be ready to support and do my best to deliver.”
Jia De Guzman is set to make her PVL return against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Thursday, February 5, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.
