DON’T ever count the ‘Phenom’ out.
There may be assumptions Alyssa Valdez is past her prime, but nights like this prove she is far from finished.
In just her second start of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference, the 32-year-old captain delivered her biggest game yet, powering Creamline to a five-set win over Cignal that secured their spot in the qualifying round.
READ: Creamline outlasts Cignal in 5-set classic, books qualifying spot
Valdez turned back the clock with a vintage triple-double of 22 points, 13 digs, and 13 receptions in a performance that could not have come at a better time with fellow MVPs Jema Galanza and Bernadeth Pons still out.
It was the kind of showing that reminded everyone exactly who she is.
Still, Valdez refused to make it about herself. Rather, she framed it as a statement for the 10-time champions.
“I think every game, it's more of a reminder for myself and for the team that we're still here,” she said.
“If there's something to motivate myself, ang hirap din kasi to actually just think of other people. So ngayon, parang ako, iniisip ko talaga na it's a reminder na kaya pa and I'll just do my part in practice and kapag kailangan, tutulong tayo.”
'Phenom' back to form
For someone whose resumé has already helped shape Philippine volleyball, one quiet stretch averaging just 4.9 points in eight games was never going to define her.
All it took was one moment, one game, and one gentle reminder that Valdez and the Cool Smashers are not going anywhere just yet.
“It's not more of trying to prove anything, but mas more on trying to stick together and making sure sa sarili ko and sa team na magkakasama kami hanggang dulo,” she said.
Indeed, they and the sport's longstanding 'Phenom' are still here to stay.
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