FOR years, Creamline's biggest advantage has been continuity, keeping together a core that built an 11-title dynasty to remain the PVL's standard of excellence.
But head coach Sherwin Meneses knows full well dynasties eventually have to think about what's next.
That is why the Cool Smashers are treating the 2026 Rookie Draft as more than just another annual exercise, but a chance to start securing the future.
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“No. 1, ‘yung magiging future ng Creamline, knowing naman talaga na hindi na bumabata ‘yung team namin," he answered when asked about their considerations for the upcoming rookie selection process.
"Hopefully, makakuha kami talaga ng mga papalit sa mga seniors. ‘Yan naman ‘yung target namin dito, hindi lang ‘yung pang-next conference, ‘yung sa mga susunod din."
The numbers back up that concern, as Creamline's current roster has an average age of 28.6 years old, with only six players born in 2000 or later.
While the team remains loaded with championship experience, youth has become an increasingly valuable commodity for a franchise intent on extending its reign.
That makes their forthcoming No. 9 pick one of the Cool Smashers' most important decisions in recent years.
After drafting only Aleiah Torres in 2024 then adding Sheena Toring and Nica Celis in 2025, they could look to bring in more than one rookie this year if circumstances allow.
“Depende kasi ‘yung roster namin, medyo tight. Naghahanap kami ng mga players na talagang pangmatagalan din sa amin," he said.
Options, options, options
Without guarantees on who will still be available by the time the ninth pick comes around, Creamline has widened its search across the draft pool.
One group that has particularly caught Meneses' attention is the NCAA contingent, several of whom he had been monitoring throughout Season 101.
The seven-time champion coach admitted that there is already one prospect who has stood out during the combine, although he was not about to reveal any names.
“Actually, nakita naman na namin. Tinitignan lang namin kung talagang deserving at nagpa-participate nang husto sa combine kasi siyempre, ‘yung attitude, No. 1," he said.
For a franchise that prides itself on culture as much as championships, talent alone has never been enough.
That may sound modest coming from a team with 11 titles, but the Cool Smashers understand the reality of drafting near the end of the first round, as they ponder the players who will keep their dynasty going for years to come.
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