Bernadeth Pons contributed 28 points, 17 digs, and 24 receptions to the Creamline Cool Smashers' thrilling comeback win over the Cignal HD Spikers to advance to the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference Finals.
"MVPons" might soon turn into a reality in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Bernadeth Pons turned in another powerful all-around performance, helping the Creamline Cool Smashers pull off the thrilling reverse sweep of the Cignal HD Spikers in the semifinals, 20-25, 26-28, 25-18, 27-25, 15-13.
The former Far Eastern University standout finished with 28 points, along with 17 excellent digs and 24 excellent receptions for a triple-double. 28 points are also Pons' new PVL career-high, the third time she reset her personal best in this conference alone.
[ALSO READ: Double career-highs for Erica Staunton and Bernadeth Pons help Creamline complete epic PVL semis comeback vs. Cignal]
Whether scoring points or extending a rally, the 27-year-old outside hitter remains ready to contribute in whatever way she can for Creamline.
“Pag nasa harap ako like kanina, number one blocking team din ‘yung Cignal so maganda blockings nila, so hindi agad-agad nakaka-puntos. Basta pag sa likod ko iniisip ko lang papasa ako ng maayos, dedepensa ako para sa teammates ko na nasa harap,” Pons said during the post-game press conference.
“Ayaw ko lang din talaga magpa-bagsak ng bola basta-basta sa likod. Masyado kong ine-enjoy ‘yung role ko sa likod,” she added.
But even after her stellar performance, Pons made sure to credit her teammates for their efforts in securing the comeback victory, as the Cool Smashers advanced to their first Finals in the Reinforced Conference since 2019.
“Unang-una sobrang saya kasi na-survive namin 'tong game na 'to. Sobrang team effort din talaga,” said Pons.
“Ayaw din talaga bumigay lahat kahit last one na lang 'yung Cignal, naka-focus pa rin kami sa every point. 'Di kami nag-give up talaga,” she added.
Pons will look to put on one more stellar outing as the Cool Smashers face the Akari Chargers for the Reinforced Conference crown on Monday, September 2, at 6:00 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.