Rookie Nica Celis proved her worth as a starter in the last two sets to help Creamline end the first round of the PVL Reinforced Conference.
Celis scored five points in two sets played and delivered the game-winner in Creamline’s 23-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-17 victory over Chery Tiggo on Tuesday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
The second-round pick of the Cool Smashers said it felt fulfilling to contribute after they secured a top-three spot in Pool B with 3-2 record.
‘It feels really good to have helped the team. I’ve been trying to find ways to contribute,’ said Celis in Filipino. ‘I’m super grateful for the guidance from the seniors, for all my teammates on the court, and of course, for the trust that coach has given me.’
Seldom used in Creamline’s first games and previous stints in the PVL on Tour and Invitational, Celis stayed patient until she finally earned her time to contribute to the team.
‘My mindset has always been to just keep working. I know how big this team is and how much effort it takes to be here,’ she said.
After showing what she’s capable of, the former UP Fighting Maroon vows to stay ready to deliver for Creamline as they head to the next round against the bottom three of Pool A.
‘I still have a lot to improve, so I try not to get too comfortable or too happy with what I’ve done so far. I just want to keep pushing and getting better,’ Celis said.
‘It’s just about doing my job, staying focused and performing well. It’s just such a nice feeling,’ she added.