After Jia de Guzman left for Japan to join the Denso Airbees, Kyle Negrito found herself at the center of attention—both the highs and the lows—as Creamline’s new primary playmaker throughout the 2024 Premier Volleyball League season.
Despite facing skepticism, criticism, and negativity throughout the season, Negrito defied the odds and played a crucial role in Creamline’s historic Grand Slam achievement, marking the first-ever such feat in Philippine volleyball history.
The Far Eastern University standout orchestrated 25 excellent sets to propel Creamline from a 1-2 set deficit and secure their first Invitationals championship in two years.
Not only did Negrito earn her third Best Setter award, but the 27-year-old playmaker also claimed her first Finals MVP accolade after guiding the Cool Smashers to a hard-fought victory over Cignal.
“Sabi nga ni [Coach Sherwin], dedma raw. Ako, yung mga kasama ko lang din pinanghahawakan ko. Binabalik ko lang din talaga yung tiwala na binibigay nila sa akin and I’m happy na nagresult siya,” she said.
The relationship between Negrito and Meneses has been a love-hate one.
That is why when she was crowned as the Finals MVP, Negrito made sure to express her gratitude to Meneses.
(C) PVL Images
“Salamat din Coach She (Meneses). Bati na tayo, champion na tayo e,” she said, fighting tears from her eyes as she acknowledged that Meneses only wants her to be her own woman.
In addition to her enhanced role as the team’s primary playmaker, Negrito also stepped up as a leader in the absence of several key players who were either injured or committed to national team duties.
Tots Carlos and Alyssa Valdez did not participate in the Reinforced and Invitational Conferences due to minor injuries, while Jema Galanza joined the team later after her duties with the Alas Pilipinas Women.
Despite missing some of Creamline’s top performers, Negrito’s confidence, along with the team’s unwavering belief in their deep chemistry, never faltered. Their determination to achieve the rare Grand Slam feat remained intact throughout their third attempt.
“Buong-buo pa rin yung kumpyansa kasi tulad nga ng palagi ko rin sinasabi, advantage namin this conference na kahit naman may mga nawala, kaming Creamline, matagal na kami magkakasama,” shared the Bacoor, Cavite native.
“Kaya walang problema kahit sino nasa loob, alam ng bawat isa sa amin yung role nila and gagawin namin yung role namin.”
MV-Pons and Jema Galanza embrace the moment! 💖#PVL2024
📹 @JustinValencia_ /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/MFLsFDIShm
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 12, 2024
