Top-seeded Creamline Cool Smashers look to extend their dominance and build momentum for the playoffs as they face last-place Nxled Chameleons in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino qualifying round.
The 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference qualifying round is set to begin, marking the next stage of the tournament where teams fight for better playoff positioning.
Among the matchups, the Creamline Cool Smashers, the tournament's No. 1 seed, will take on the Nxled Chameleons, who finished at the bottom of the standings.
Set for Thursday, February 29, at the PhilSports Arena, this game presents a battle between the league’s most dominant squad and a team looking to salvage a tough campaign.
Opposite ends of the standings
Creamline has once again established itself as the team to beat this conference.
The Cool Smashers topped the preliminary round with a near-perfect 10-1 record, securing the No. 1 seed. Their only defeat came at the hands of the PLDT High Speed Hitters in a thrilling five-setter earlier this month.
Led by their powerhouse core, the Cool Smashers have been dominant on both ends of the floor.
The likes of Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Alyssa Valdez continue to spearhead their offensive charge, while Kyle Negrito’s playmaking remains crucial to their success.
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On the other hand, Nxled has endured a difficult campaign, finishing at the bottom of the standings with a 1-10 record.
The Chameleons’ lone victory came against the Galeries Tower Highrisers, but they have since struggled to keep up with the league’s top squads.
Despite their challenges, Nxled will look to start their playoff run on an emphatic note, relying on the efforts of EJ Laure, Chiara Permentilla, and Lycha Ebon.
[ALSO READ: EJ Laure surprised by her big game as she leads Nxled to first win in PVL All-Filipino]
In their preliminary round match last January 28, the Cool Smashers dominated the Chameleons for a straight-sets victory.
What’s at stake?
With the top seed already in hand, Creamline is in prime position to advance deeper into the postseason.
A win against Nxled will not only solidify their standing but also give them momentum heading into the next phase of the tournament.
For the Chameleons, this match serves as a final opportunity to showcase their potential and possibly shake up the competition.
While the odds are stacked against them, a spirited performance against the league’s best team could serve as a stepping stone for the future.
[ALSO READ: What to expect from the upcoming qualifying round in 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference?]
Game time is set for 6:00 p.m. as Creamline and Nxled face off in the qualifying round.