PVL: Shocked Nica Celis ‘Honored’ by Creamline Pick. University of the Philippines standout Nica Celis was selected by the Creamline Cool Smashers as the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft. The 24-year-old middle blocker expressed shock and honor at joining the 10-time PVL champions, citing the opportunity to learn from stars like Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and fellow UP alumna Tots Carlos. Celis has since made her professional debut and continues to develop within the Creamline system.
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Quick Takeaways
| Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Player | Nica Celis |
| Position | Middle Blocker |
| Height | 5-foot-9 (1.78 m) |
| Age | 24 years old |
| College | University of the Philippines |
| Draft Position | 23rd overall pick, 2025 PVL Rookie Draft |
| Team | Creamline Cool Smashers |
| Reaction | “Shocked and honored” |
| Key Opportunity | Training alongside Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos |
PVL: Shocked Nica Celis ‘Honored’ by Creamline Pick
University of the Philippines standout Nica Celis expressed her utter disbelief and immense honor after being selected by the reigning PVL champions, Creamline Cool Smashers, in the recent rookie draft. Her unexpected journey to the Philippines’ most decorated volleyball club marks a new chapter for the promising middle blocker.
A Dream Come True: Celis Joins PVL Dynasty
The 2025 PVL Rookie Draft delivered a moment of pure emotion for Nica Celis, a product of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. As the 23rd overall pick, Celis found herself in a state of happy disbelief upon hearing her name called by none other than the 10-time PVL champion Creamline Cool Smashers. For aspiring volleyball players across the Philippines, joining a team of Creamline’s caliber is often the ultimate goal, and for Celis, it became a surprising reality .
The Unforeseen Path to Cool Smashers
“Honestly, I was really blank while we were waiting. When I heard my name, it felt unreal because it was never in my mind that I would go to their team,” Celis shared with reporters after the draft proceedings at Novotel Manila in Quezon City . Her candid reaction underscored the unexpected nature of her selection, highlighting the intense anticipation and unpredictability of the PVL draft process.
Being Creamline’s final pick before the team opted to pass on further selections adds to the significance of her entry. This opportunity presents a unique learning curve for Celis, who will now train and compete alongside established stars such as Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and fellow UP alumna Tots Carlos. The chance to absorb knowledge and experience from such a decorated roster is a prospect she eagerly embraces .
Embracing the Challenge and Growth Opportunity
Despite the initial shock, Celis quickly transitioned to excitement and gratitude. “It’s still such an honor to be there and I was a bit shaky. As you can see, I’m still shaking. So, I’m really happy,” she beamed, still visibly processing the momentous occasion. Her enthusiasm is palpable as she looks forward to the rigorous training and competitive environment that awaits her with the Cool Smashers .
For any young player, being surrounded by seasoned champions is an unparalleled learning experience. Celis acknowledges this, stating, “It’s exciting because I’m going to be surrounded by really great players, and I know that I’ll pick up a lot of things from them and learn a lot from them, so I see this as an opportunity to grow” . This mindset bodes well for her development as a professional athlete in the demanding Philippine volleyball scene.
“Just the thought of it is really thrilling to the point that I’m ready to start training right now. I just don’t know how to explain this feeling that I have right now, but overall, it’s just pure bliss,” she added .
From UP Fighting Maroon to Creamline Cool Smasher
Celis’s journey to the professional ranks was built on a strong collegiate career at the University of the Philippines. Serving as team captain, the 5-foot-9 middle blocker guided the Fighting Maroons to a 6-8 win-loss record in UAAP Season 87 — their best finish since matching that mark back in Season 81 .
Her leadership and performance at UP caught the attention of PVL scouts, leading to her inclusion in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft. Entering the draft, Celis carried with her the “Giting at Tapang” spirit that defined her stint with the Fighting Maroons — a philosophy rooted in courage, resilience, and relentless effort .
“Tibay ng puso at utak. Kasi no matter where you go, things won’t always favor you and you really, really have to put in the work. So that’s something na definitely madadala ko pagdating ko ng pro,” she said. “Titibay at titibay na matibay na player” .
Making Her Mark in the PVL
Since being drafted, Celis has begun to make her presence felt in the professional ranks. In the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference, she had her breakout performance, scoring five points in just two sets to help Creamline secure a four-set win over Chery Tiggo, 23-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-17 .
The performance drew praise from American import Courtney Schwan, who recognized Celis’s dedication during practice.
“Every day in practice she’s very focused on getting better, she’s very diligent, and you can tell that she’s focused on the things she needs to do better. I’m very happy for her that she had a really good game after all the hard work she’s put in,” Schwan said .
Celis admitted the recognition moved her to tears. “I was surprised, actually. When she said that, medyo nag-build up na ‘yung tears sa eyes. Ang sarap lang sa pakiramdam na ma-appreciate ‘yung work na nilalagay ko sa court,” she shared .
Creamline’s Youth Movement
Celis’s addition to Creamline is part of a broader strategy by the Cool Smashers to infuse youth into their roster. As of 2026, seven players from Creamline’s champion core are already 30 years old and above, 10 fall within the 25 to 29 range, and only three are under 25 — including Sheena Toring, Aleiah Torres, and Nica Celis .
The team’s average age stands at 28.6 years old, with only six players born in 2000 or later. This demographic reality has made youth development a priority for the franchise as it seeks to extend its championship reign .
In the 2026 season, Creamline has continued to add young talent. The team welcomed Erin Pangilinan, a former National University standout, to further strengthen their middle blocker rotation alongside Celis, Toring, Bea de Leon, Michelle Gamit, and Jeanette Panaga .
The Cool Smashers also added Jaja Santiago (now Sachi Minowa) to their frontcourt for the 2026 season, joining the middle blocker rotation that includes Celis and Pangilinan .
Staying Grounded: Celis’s Mindset for Success
As she continues to earn her place in the Creamline lineup, Celis maintains a grounded approach to her development.
“Honestly, my mindset is never expect anything. I always have to be ready, I just have to keep working,” Celis told One Sports. “If I expect too much and I don’t get what I want, masakit. So, at the end of the day, no expectations, trabaho lang” .
This humble perspective reflects the character she developed at UP, where she learned to embrace challenges and work relentlessly toward her goals.
She acknowledges that as she gains more opportunities, expectations will rise. “I still have to keep working. That’s my only motivation — I know mas tataas pa ‘yung expectations sa akin,” she said. “But either way, I have to focus and not think about what they want from me, but I have to think about how I can strive to do more to help my team” .
What’s Next for Celis and Creamline
Celis is now firmly part of the Creamline system, contributing to the team’s rotation as they compete in the 2026 PVL season. The league has introduced a provincial tour format, with matches scheduled in Isabela, Batangas, Ilocos Sur, South Cotabato, and Lanao del Norte, bringing the country’s premier volleyball competition closer to fans outside Metro Manila .
With the mandate requiring all 14 active players to log minutes in every match during the preseason tournament, Celis has been given opportunities to crack the starting lineup and showcase her abilities .
For Celis, the journey has only just begun. Her story — from UP Fighting Maroon to Creamline Cool Smasher — embodies the dreams of many young athletes in the Philippines. Her selection as the 23rd overall pick and her subsequent growth within the PVL’s most successful franchise will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration, showcasing that dedication and perseverance can lead to incredible opportunities .
Frequently Asked Questions About Nica Celis and Creamline
1. Who is Nica Celis?
Nica Celis is a Filipino volleyball player who played for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and was drafted by the Creamline Cool Smashers in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft .
2. When was Nica Celis drafted?
Celis was selected as the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft held at Novotel Manila in Quezon City .
3. What position does Nica Celis play?
Celis is a middle blocker, standing at 5-foot-9 (1.78 m) .
4. What was Celis’s reaction to being drafted by Creamline?
Celis said she was “shocked” and “honored” to be selected by the 10-time PVL champions, describing the moment as “pure bliss” .
5. Which team drafted Nica Celis?
The Creamline Cool Smashers drafted Celis with the 23rd overall pick .
6. What can Celis learn from Creamline?
Celis will train alongside stars like Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and Tots Carlos, learning from their championship experience and professional approach .
7. How did Celis perform in her rookie season?
Celis had a breakout performance in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference, scoring five points in two sets against Chery Tiggo .
8. What is Celis’s mindset as she develops in the PVL?
Celis maintains a grounded mindset: “No expectations, trabaho lang” — focusing on continuous improvement without putting excessive pressure on herself .
9. Why is Creamline adding young players?
Creamline’s roster has an average age of 28.6 years old. The team is strategically infusing youth to secure its future and extend its championship reign .
10. Who are Creamline’s other young players?
Creamline’s young core includes Sheena Toring, Aleiah Torres, and Nica Celis, along with newer additions like Erin Pangilinan and Barbie Jamili .
11. What is the PVL?
The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) is the Philippines’ premier professional volleyball league, featuring top teams from across the country.
12. How many championships has Creamline won?
As of 2026, Creamline has won 11 PVL titles, making them the most successful franchise in league history .
13. What was Celis’s college career like?
Celis served as team captain for UP, leading the Fighting Maroons to a 6-8 record in UAAP Season 87 — their best finish since Season 81 .
14. What does “Giting at Tapang” mean?
“Giting at Tapang” is UP’s battle cry, meaning “courage and bravery.” Celis carries this philosophy into her professional career .
15. What is the PVL on Tour?
The PVL on Tour is a provincial format where league matches are held in different locations across the Philippines, including Isabela, Batangas, and South Cotabato .
16. How can I watch Creamline’s matches?
PVL matches are broadcast on various platforms. Check the official PVL website and social media channels for schedules and streaming information.
17. What number does Nica Celis wear?
Celis wears jersey number 15 for the Creamline Cool Smashers .
18. When was Celis born?
Celis was born on July 7, 2001 .
19. What is Celis’s height?
Celis stands at 1.78 meters (5 feet 10 inches) .
20. How can I follow Nica Celis’s career?
Follow PH Sport News and the official PVL channels for updates on Celis’s performances and Creamline’s matches.
Conclusion
PVL: Shocked Nica Celis ‘Honored’ by Creamline Pick captures a defining moment in the young athlete’s career. From her days as a UP Fighting Maroon to her selection by the 10-time PVL champions, Celis’s journey embodies the power of dedication, hard work, and resilience.
Her reaction to being drafted a mix of shock, gratitude, and excitement — reflects the magnitude of the opportunity. Joining a team of Creamline’s caliber means training alongside some of the best players in Philippine volleyball, an environment that promises growth and development.
As Celis continues to make her mark in the professional ranks, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country. With her grounded mindset and unwavering work ethic, the future looks bright for this promising middle blocker.
🎯 Key Takeaway: Nica Celis’s journey from UP standout to Creamline Cool Smasher demonstrates that dedication and hard work can lead to unexpected and incredible opportunities.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information is based on publicly available sources and verified reports. For the latest updates on Nica Celis and the Creamline Cool Smashers, follow official PVL channels. For more sports news, visit PH Sport News.
Miya Kassandra Lee is a passionate gamer, seasoned writer, and lifelong sports fanatic. A proud Mobile Legends player and strategist, Miya has spent the past 16 years covering everything from esports tournaments to iGaming trends and sports headlines across Southeast Asia. With her deep knowledge of digital gaming culture and a flair for storytelling, she has become a trusted voice in the gaming and sports blogging scene.
Whether it’s breaking down the latest MLBB meta, reviewing new online casino platforms, or live-tweeting a championship game, Miya brings energy, insight, and a player’s perspective to every piece she writes. When she’s not grinding the ranks in-game or drafting her next feature, you’ll find her cheering courtside, hosting gaming streams, or diving deep into the latest game patches.
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