Kobe Shinwa University delivered one of the biggest shocks of the 2025 PVL Invitational Conference, ousting powerhouse Creamline with a 27-25, 25-23, 23-25, 25-21 victory at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The Japanese squad, just a day removed from a humbling loss to PLDT, unleashed a high-octane brand of volleyball that left the Cool Smashers scrambling. Their trademark speed, energy, and relentless defense proved too much for the 10-time PVL champions, who saw their finals bid come to an abrupt end.

Yasuma powers Kobe Shinwa’s statement win

Leading the charge was Kokoro Yasuma, who erupted for 23 points and anchored her performance with 12 excellent receptions. Supported by Nagisa Komatsuda and Arisu Ishikawa with 16 points apiece, Kobe Shinwa showcased a balanced attack that kept Creamline on the back foot throughout the match.

Even after Creamline salvaged the third set behind Jema Galanza’s heroics, the Japanese squad showed composure beyond their years. Komatsuda won a crucial block touch challenge late in the fourth before Ishikawa sealed the deal with a through-the-block hit, silencing Creamline’s last rally.

Setter Sakura Furuta orchestrated the offense with 21 excellent sets, while libero Rino Hirami anchored the defense with nine digs. Kobe Shinwa outgunned Creamline in attacks (69-56) and led in aces (5-2), offsetting their disadvantage at the net.

Creamline’s dynasty dreams dashed

Creamline, the reigning Invitational champion, leaned on Galanza and Pangs Panaga, who each scored 20 points, but the squad fell short despite late rallies and tactical adjustments from coach Sherwin Meneses. Veterans Alyssa Valdez and Michele Gumabao chipped in nine and eight markers, while Pau Soriano provided a spark in the third set with key blocks.

Galanza, who finished with 11 digs and 17 receptions, led the defensive effort along with libero Kyla Atienza. Still, it wasn’t enough to stave off elimination, as Creamline dropped to 1-3 and saw its title hopes vanish after a turbulent 2025 season.

The Cool Smashers, once the league’s most dominant force, bowed out against a Kobe Shinwa side that combined youth and precision to perfection. For the Japanese squad, the win was more than just a bounce-back — it was a statement victory that pushed them closer to a finals berth and possibly a rematch against unbeaten PLDT.