Creamline Cool Smashers to defend title without Jia de Guzman

Creamline Cool Smashers will defend their PVL Reinforced Conference title without star setter Jia de Guzman.

Team management decided to give the Alas Pilipinas captain more time to rest and continue her full-time commitment to the national team, which is preparing for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

Coach Sherwin Meneses acknowledged the difficulty of playing without de Guzman but expressed confidence in the team's roster.

He highlighted the improved play of Kyle Negrito, who has stepped up in de Guzman's absence, alongside experienced backup setters Rhea Dimaculangan-Villarete and Mafe Galanza.

Creamline, which secured bronze medals in recent tournaments, is prepared to defend its championship with the addition of American import Coco Schwan and other key players.