Creamline Cool Smashers’ veteran Michele Gumabao has emerged as a shining star this Premier Volleyball League (PVL) season, stepping up as a leader in the absence of superstars Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos. Known for her resilience and versatility on the court, Gumabao's efforts were finally recognized as she was named the 2024 PVL Invitational Conference MVP. This prestigious accolade marks her first MVP honor in her seven-season tenure with the league, underscoring her invaluable contribution to her team.
MVP MG! 🏆
— Premier Volleyball League (@pvlph) September 12, 2024
Watch the awarding ceremony on:
📺 : One Sports | One Sports+ | RPTV
📲 : Pilipinas Live
🖥️ : https://t.co/ihdl9Qmw64#PVL2024 pic.twitter.com/aTZDyncgTU
Gumabao’s leadership qualities have been instrumental in guiding the Creamline Cool Smashers to success this season. In the absence of key players Valdez and Carlos, Gumabao embraced the challenge, taking on a more prominent role both on and off the court. She not only filled the void left by the absentees but also inspired her teammates with her unwavering determination and work ethic.
Throughout the Invitational Conference, Gumabao played a pivotal role in Creamline’s title win. As an opposite hitter, she was the top local scorer with 59 points from 52 kills, showcasing her offensive prowess. Additionally, she ranked second in spiking with a 37.96 percent success rate, and fourth in serving with 0.29 aces per set, totaling four aces throughout the conference. Her performance was not just about statistics; it was about setting an example, leading by action, and motivating her team to strive for greatness.
Gumabao’s influence extended beyond her impressive stats. She was often seen rallying her teammates, offering words of encouragement, and maintaining a positive atmosphere within the team. Her leadership style is rooted in her belief in teamwork and unity, as reflected in her statement during a media interaction:
“Pinakaimportante talaga yung championship kasi yun talaga ang pinaghirapan namin as a team, everything else talagang bonus na lang talaga para sa amin. Kasi sa Creamline, one team, one family kami and yung goal naman namin is not individual kung hindi ang manalo kami as a team,” said Gumabao, emphasizing the importance of collective success over individual accolades.
Winning the MVP award is a significant milestone for Gumabao, who has been a consistent performer in the PVL. At 32, she has become a role model for younger players, demonstrating that experience, perseverance, and dedication can lead to success. Gumabao is now the fifth Creamline player to receive the MVP award, joining the ranks of three-time winners Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos, 2019 Open Conference MVP Jema Galanza, and Bernadeth Pons, who recently won the MVP in the Reinforced Conference.
Gumabao’s journey to the MVP award has been a testament to her growth as a player and leader. Despite facing stiff competition from other talented players, she maintained her focus and delivered standout performances when it mattered most. Her ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure is what sets her apart and makes her a deserving recipient of the MVP title.
Creamline’s success this season was not just about Gumabao; it was a collective effort that saw multiple players stepping up and contributing to the team's overall performance. Kyle Negrito was named the Best Setter for her exceptional playmaking skills, registering 5.29 excellent sets per frame. This is Negrito’s second Best Setter award, solidifying her status as one of the league’s top playmakers.
The Creamline Cool Smashers also boasted other standout performers in the Invitational Conference. Cignal HD Spikers’ MJ Perez earned the Best Outside Spiker award after leading the league in scoring with 115 points off 104 kills. Creamline’s import Erica Staunton was also recognized for her efforts, earning the Best Outside Spiker award with a total of 61 points, showcasing her ability to make an impact on the court.
The defensive side of the game was not overlooked, as Low Mei Cing of Kurashiki Ablaze was named the Best Middle Blocker for her exceptional performance at the net. Saya Taniguchi’s powerful hits and consistent play earned her the Best Opposite Spiker award, while Kalyarat Khamwong of EST Cola was recognized as the Best Libero for her stellar defensive work, contributing significantly to her team’s success.
With her MVP award in hand, Michele Gumabao has set a new standard for herself and her teammates as they look forward to future tournaments. Her journey is far from over; in fact, it seems like it’s just beginning. As she continues to refine her skills and leadership qualities, Gumabao will undoubtedly be a key player for the Cool Smashers in upcoming PVL seasons.
The Creamline Cool Smashers, with a roster full of talented and award-winning players, are poised to remain a dominant force in the PVL. With the return of Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos, the team will only get stronger, and Gumabao’s role as a leader will be even more crucial in integrating these returning stars into the current dynamic.
Michele Gumabao’s MVP win is a reminder that hard work, perseverance, and team spirit are the cornerstones of success in sports. As she continues to inspire her teammates and fans alike, her story will undoubtedly be one of the many highlights of the 2024 PVL season.
For fans and followers of Michele Gumabao, the Creamline Cool Smashers, and the PVL, staying up to date with the latest news and developments is essential. OKBET, Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports betting in Philippines, is the go-to source for all things sports, including comprehensive coverage of the PVL and other major sporting events worldwide.
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