IN a role reversal that perhaps caught many by surprise, Choco Mucho finds itself as the slight favorite against the multi-titled Creamline, a scenario quite unlike last year when the Flying Titans were clear underdogs in their first-ever finals appearance in the Premier Volleyball League.

However, the narrative has shifted dramatically with Choco Mucho's remarkable sweep of the semifinal round, proving themselves as top contenders even in the absence of three key players sidelined due to various reasons during the course of their campaign in the All-Filipino Conference.

"Despite our limitations, reaching the finals feels incredibly gratifying. It's a testament to the hard work we've put in," said Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin, credited with crafting a championship-caliber system that has unified his players toward a common goal.

As the finals commence, all eyes will naturally gravitate toward the explosive talents of Choco Mucho's Sisi Rondina and Creamline's Tots Carlos. However, the performances of the supporting cast and the bench players will be equally crucial in the best-of-three series.

Game 1 is set to kick off at 6 tonight, promising a thrilling showdown that is expected to draw a sellout crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Petro Gazz and Chery Tiggo also start their own series for bronze at 4 p.m.

For Alinsunurin, motivation isn't a concern, as his Flying Titans are driven by an insatiable hunger for championship glory, a sentiment echoed by key players Royse Tubino, Isa Molde, Maddie Madayag and Cherry Nunag and playmaker Mars Alba.

"Our edge perhaps lies in our hunger. Choco Mucho is truly hungry to reach the finals or clinch the championship," said Alinsunurin. "This is what the players and us coaches have long been waiting for — to achieve this."

Yet, overcoming a team as steeped in championship experience as Creamline will require more than just hunger. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, including three in the prelims and one in the semis, the defending champions relish the opportunity to etch their names in history with a third consecutive AFC title and an eighth overall championship.

Creamline mentor Sherwin Meneses, armed with talents like Jema Galanza, Alyssa Valdez, Pangs Panaga, Michele Gumabao and setter Kyle Negrito, emphasizes the team's focus on adapting to every situation.

"Our approach remains consistent — we tackle each point as it comes, prepared for any scenario. The unpredictability of the game keeps us on our toes, and that's where we focus our training," said Meneses.

The Cool Smashers stand ready to defend their crown against any challenger, underscoring their readiness to face whatever challenges the finals may bring.

"Regardless of our opponent, we're prepared. Our training centered around adapting to various situations, so whoever we face, we'll be ready," said Meneses.

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GAMES TODAY: 4 p.m. – Chery Tiggo vs Petro Gazz, 6 p.m. – Choco Mucho vs Creamline