The PLDT High Speed Hitters claimed a 3-0 victory over Creamline Cool Smashers on Thursday night, February 5, at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan, marking a major statement in the PVL All-Filipino Conference opener. The match saw PLDT establish dominance early while fending off a late surge from Creamline in a contest that lasted one hour and 28 minutes.

The win was led by Savi Davison, who exploded for 26 points and completed a triple-double with 11 excellent digs and 10 receptions. Kim Dy, Jovie Prado, Majoy Baron, and Mika Reyes provided crucial support, combining offensive firepower and defensive stability that kept the High Speed Hitters ahead in critical moments.

Bernadette Pons returned to action with 13 points for Creamline, while Tots Carlos added 11. Alyssa Valdez and Bea de Leon contributed five points apiece, and Jema Galanza scored four in her comeback from injury. Despite their efforts, the Cool Smashers were unable to counter PLDT’s consistent attack and net dominance, finishing with eight blocks compared to Creamline’s three.

PLDT asserts control with resilience and depth

What initially promised to be a tight contest quickly became a showcase for PLDT’s depth and composure. The High Speed Hitters weathered a late first-set rally from Creamline, turning a 24-22 deficit into a 25-22 frame win with key defensive plays and clinical finishing at the net.

The second set highlighted PLDT’s growing confidence, as they surged to a 25-17 victory. Davison set the tone with relentless attacks, while her teammates provided timely blocks and floor defense that neutralized Creamline’s attempts to shift momentum.

The third set offered the most drama, with Creamline clawing back from a 17-20 deficit to tie at 23-23. PLDT’s composure proved decisive, however, as Davison converted a key attack and Prado and Baron sealed the match with a critical block that ricocheted back into Creamline’s court. Video review confirmed no net faults, confirming PLDT’s 25-23 set and 3-0 match victory.

Momentum signals a potential shift in league power

PLDT’s win not only opened the season with confidence but also reinforced the team’s continued rise following a strong 2025 campaign. After winning the PVL On Tour and Invitationals last year, the High Speed Hitters have shed their underdog label and are now embracing the expectation that comes with being legitimate title contenders.

Creamline, owners of 10 PVL titles and the 2024 Grand Slam, appeared frustrated by PLDT’s pace and intensity. Both teams entered the matchup healthy and fully prepared, yet the High Speed Hitters consistently matched and often exceeded the Cool Smashers’ firepower, showing that the balance of power in the league may be shifting.

PLDT coach praised the team’s all-around effort, emphasizing the importance of preparation, teamwork, and composure in critical moments. With the All-Filipino Conference featuring one of the deepest rosters in PVL history, PLDT’s statement win positions them as a team to watch as the season unfolds.