Jen Nierva on PVL Return: “Alas Experience Brings Pressure and Pride”

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by Misha Cruz

Chery Tiggo star libero Jen Nierva.
Chery Tiggo star libero Jen Nierva (9). Photo: PVL.

Coming back from the international stage is never just business as usual. For Chery Tiggo star libero Jen Nierva, wearing the Alas Pilipinas jersey didn’t just sharpen her skills—it also gave her and her teammates a brand-new level of expectation to live up to in the PVL.

Nierva shared that while the national team stint was an unforgettable milestone, it also comes with extra weight once they’re back on home soil. 

“Hindi siya masasabing mas madali,” she admitted. “Iba talaga ‘yung pananaw kapag galing ka sa international. When you return, you feel like you have to showcase everything you’ve learned. May pride, pero may pressure din.”

That sense of pride, according to Nierva, pushes her to bring more than just digs and saves to the Chery Tiggo Crossovers. She believes the leadership she developed with Alas Pilipinas will be just as crucial as her on-court defense. “Our team is full of talent,” she explained. “Pero kailangan may leader palagi, someone who can spark energy and bring out the best sa bawat isa.”

Jen Nierva hopes to lead Chery Tiggo to a third PVL Finals appearance.
Jen Nierva hopes to lead Chery Tiggo to a third PVL Finals appearance. Photo: PVL.

And Nierva isn’t shying away from that responsibility. As the Crossovers chase their third PVL Finals appearance, she knows her role goes beyond being the last line of defense—it’s also about being the steady voice that rallies the squad when the pressure rises.

Playing abroad has given Nierva and her Alas teammates an edge, but it also means that fans, coaches, and even opponents expect them to be a cut above the rest. That added spotlight doesn’t intimidate her—it fuels her. “It’s about proving na our stint with Alas wasn’t just for show. Kailangan makita sa laro namin na may nadala talaga kami pabalik dito.”

Now, with the PVL season heating up and the Crossovers looking hungry to reclaim their spot in the championship stage, Nierva stands ready to lead the charge. For her, the international badge of honor is not just a memory—it’s a standard she’s determined to uphold every time she steps on the court.

The pressure may be higher, but so is the pride. And for Nierva, that balance is exactly what pushes her and Chery Tiggo closer to greatness.