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Category: Volleyball

  • “A real pleasure to coach”: Ettore Guidetti praises Lyann de Guzman after Nxled’s second win

    “A real pleasure to coach”: Ettore Guidetti praises Lyann de Guzman after Nxled’s second win

    The Nxled Chameleons continued to show why they are widely regarded as the early favorites in the ongoing 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference after dismantling the Capital1 Solar Spikers in straight sets, 25-18, 28-26, 25-21, at the Ynares Center in Montalban on Saturday, February 7.

     

    Nxled displayed poise and balance throughout the contest, controlling the tempo in the opening set before surviving a tight second frame and closing strong in the third to seal their second consecutive victory in the conference. The win further underscored the Chameleons’ depth, cohesion, and growing chemistry early in the season.

     

    Former UAAP standout Lyann de Guzman continued her impressive start to the conference, building on her solid debut by earning Best Player of the Game honors. The 23-year-old finished with 13 points, highlighted by several timely and clutch hits that steadied Nxled during crucial stretches, particularly in the tightly contested second set.

     

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    De Guzman received ample support from the team’s veteran core, with Brooke Van Sickle and Myla Pablo leading the scoring with 15 points apiece. Middle blocker MJ Phillips also made her presence felt at the net, contributing 10 points while anchoring Nxled’s defense against Capital1’s attacks.

     

    Selected fourth overall by Nxled in last year’s PVL Rookie Draft, De Guzman has quickly emerged as a key piece in the Chameleons’ system. Head coach Ettore Guidetti was full of praise for the young hitter, highlighting not only her on-court production but also her mindset and work ethic.

    “Im happier every single day about her effort and her attitude during the practice. I don’t remember a single practice that she didn’t try her best. Obviously, there are good days and bad days for every one of us, but having players like this is a real pleasure to coach,” Guidetti said during the postmatch press conference.

     

    De Guzman, for her part, was quick to credit the coaching staff, team management, and veteran teammates for helping her settle into her role and play with confidence on the court.

     

    “Coach always reminds us to stick to the system – hit hard and make sure we cover. When rallies happen, everyone does their part, and it really worked for us. They are very supportive. They always encourage me to attack, and they assure me they will take care of the coverage. Everyone is working hard, so this win really belongs to the whole team,” De Guzman said.

     

    She also emphasized the competitive yet supportive environment within the Nxled camp, noting how it has helped the team maintain consistency despite different players stepping up each game.

     

    “We have a very healthy competition in the team. Everyone is willing to step up and help. You can see that it’s not a one-woman show, everyone really wants to contribute to getting the win. Everyone knows what to do on the court. Everyone has experience since they have been in the pros for a while, so the chemistry comes easier. Everyone is also willing to learn from each other,” she added.

     

    With the victory, Nxled improved to a 2-0 record and currently sits second in the All-Filipino Conference standings. The Chameleons will enjoy a brief break before returning to action against the Cignal Solar Spikers on Saturday, February 14, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where they will look to sustain their momentum and further strengthen their bid for the conference crown.

     

     

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  • Savannah Davison praises Jia De Guzman after PLDT’s sweep of Creamline

    Savannah Davison praises Jia De Guzman after PLDT’s sweep of Creamline

    The opening days of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference sent a clear message: continuity matters, and momentum is real.

     

    PLDT wasted no time asserting its dominance over Creamline, delivering a confident 25-22, 25-17, 25-23 sweep on Thursday at the Playtime Filoil Centre. What once felt like an occasional upset has now become a pattern, as the High Speed Hitters stretched their unbeaten run against the league’s most decorated franchise to five consecutive games—a remarkable streak that has spanned 811 days.

     

    At the heart of PLDT’s brilliance was reigning MVP Savannah Davison, who looked every bit the superstar she is. She exploded early, scoring 13 points in the opening set alone, immediately setting the tone for the match. Creamline, relying on experience and championship pedigree, tried to mount a comeback, but PLDT’s pace, precision, and cohesion never wavered.

     

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    Even the long-awaited return of Creamline’s championship core—Jia de Guzman, Bernadeth Pons, Jema Galanza, and Dij Rodriguez—could not disrupt PLDT’s rhythm. The High Speed Hitters, largely intact from last year’s title run with the only change being Seth Rodriguez replacing Dell Palomata, displayed the fluidity and understanding of a team that has been building together for years.

     

    Davison finished with a conference-first triple-double, tallying 25 points, 11 digs, and 10 receptions, while Kianna Dy, Jovy Prado, and PLDT’s supporting cast ensured the offense remained balanced and relentless.

    For Davison, this marked the first time she faced a full-strength Creamline squad since joining PLDT in October 2023. The star outside hitter was quick to praise the formidable lineup, particularly the returning Jia de Guzman, who rejoined the PVL after a three-year absence.

     

    “You know what, they were pretty intimidating when they came out. I’m not going to lie, all of them were complete. Seeing them all together and seeing how individually they are strong athletes, it can be a little intimidating when you are watching them line up,” Davison said.

     

    “I mean, Jia’s hands are really hard to read. I’m not going to lie. I thought I could swing either way. But that coming out, the whole lineup together, I don’t think I have seen that since the first year I was here,” she added.

     

    Despite the commanding victory over a PVL powerhouse, Davison emphasized the need for focus and humility as PLDT embarks on a long All-Filipino campaign.

     

    “I’m just happy that we were able to win tonight. We try to do this every game coming forward. I don’t want to take it to our head, but it’s one game at a time,” she concluded.

     

    With momentum firmly on their side, PLDT will aim to continue their winning ways when they face the Capital1 Solar Spikers in their next game on Thursday, February 12, at the FilOil Centre. The High Speed Hitters will look to maintain their composure and intensity as they seek to cement themselves as early favorites in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • Jema Galanza embraces comeback, eyes bounce-back despite Creamline loss

    Jema Galanza embraces comeback, eyes bounce-back despite Creamline loss

    The roar of the crowd, the grind of long rallies, the pressure of big points—Jema Galanza finally had them all back. After four months away from competition due to a lingering left foot injury, the Creamline star returned to the PVL court with a mix of excitement and unfamiliar nerves. What she didn’t get, however, was the result she hoped for.


    Creamline’s straight-set loss to PLDT on Thursday put a damper on what was supposed to be a celebratory night for the Cool Smashers, especially for Galanza, who had waited patiently through rehabilitation just to feel game action again.

     

    “Siguro, may excitement na may kaba. Nakakapanibago na ngayon lang ulit nakabalik. Nakakalungkot lang na kinulang,” Galanza admitted after the match.

     

    While the defeat stung, the returning hitter was clear that pressure wasn’t part of her mindset heading into the game. Instead, it was the rhythm of competition—something no amount of training can fully replicate—that took time to rediscover.

     

    “Actually, wala namang pressure o wala naman akong inisip talaga. Yung pagkasanay lang kung paano ka maglalaro sa loob kasi four months din akong di naglaro. Ang tagal ko ring di na-feel yung pressure, yung laro, ganyan. Siguro, naninibago lang,” she shared.

     

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    Galanza’s comeback also coincided with the long-awaited return of Creamline’s core, as Jia De Guzman and Bernadeth Pons suited up alongside her. For the first time in a while, the Cool Smashers finally fielded a complete lineup—something Galanza said brought excitement from the very start of training camp.

     

    “Actually, nung start ng training, nakaka-excite na lahat kumpleto na kami. Ayun, di nga namin alam ano ang mangyayari, sino ang first six, o ano ang itatakbo ng training namin, pero ngayong game lang, sad lang talaga na kinulang,” she said.

     

    Still, Galanza remains optimistic. Years of playing together, shared championships, and countless battles have built a foundation she believes will eventually show itself as the conference unfolds.

    “Pero alam naman din namin na ang tagal na naming magkakasama, magkakakilala. Alam naman din namin na makakabawi kami sa next games this conference.”

     

    For Galanza, the loss was only one part of the story. The bigger win was simply being back—healthy, competing, and ready to help Creamline find its stride again.

     

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  • PLDT, Cignal score big wins to start PVL campaign

    PLDT, Cignal score big wins to start PVL campaign

    The opening days of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference sent a clear message: continuity matters, and momentum is real.

     

    PLDT wasted no time reminding everyone of its growing mastery over Creamline, delivering a confident 25-22, 25-17, 25-23 sweep Thursday at the Playtime Filoil Centre. What once felt like an occasional upset has now turned into a pattern, as the High Speed Hitters stretched their unbeaten run against the league’s most decorated franchise to five straight games—an astonishing streak that has lasted 811 days.

     

    At the heart of it all was Savi Davison, who looked every bit like the reigning MVP. She detonated early, pouring in 13 points in the opening set alone to immediately seize control of the match. Creamline tried to counter with experience and pedigree, but PLDT’s pace and precision never wavered.

     

    Even the long-awaited return of Creamline’s championship core—Jia de Guzman, Bernadeth Pons, Jema Galanza, and Dij Rodriguez—failed to disrupt PLDT’s rhythm. The High Speed Hitters, nearly intact from last year’s title run save for Seth Rodriguez filling in for Dell Palomata, played with the cohesion of a team that never stopped building.

     

    Davison finished with a conference-first triple-double, tallying 26 points, 11 digs, and 10 receptions, while Kianna Dy, Jovy Prado, and the rest of PLDT’s supporting cast ensured the offense stayed balanced and relentless.

     

    Creamline, meanwhile, showed flashes of its old self but lacked its usual bite. Pons shined in her return with 13 points and a double-digit presence on defense, while Tots Carlos added 11. De Guzman’s 12 excellent sets marked her first PVL action in 922 days, yet Creamline’s biggest guns—Alyssa Valdez, Galanza, and Michele Gumabao—were largely neutralized.

     

    If PLDT asserted dominance through familiarity, Cignal showcased the value of sharp preparation.

     

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    The HD Spikers outlasted Choco Mucho, 25-20, 16-25, 25-19, 25-18, in a physical four-set encounter that tested composure more than firepower. After briefly losing control in the second set, Cignal leaned into longer rallies and cleaner execution to slowly wear down the Flying Titans, becoming the first team to reach two wins this conference.

     

    Erika Santos continued her strong run from the preseason, leading Cignal with 18 points built on efficiency across attacks, blocks, and service aces. Vanie Gandler provided steady two-way production, while setter Gel Cayuna orchestrated the offense with 23 excellent sets that kept Choco Mucho guessing.

     

    At the net, Jackie Acuña proved decisive, piling up four kill blocks among her 13 points to halt Choco Mucho’s momentum at critical junctures.

     

    The Flying Titans didn’t go quietly. Newly formed star partners Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure delivered emphatic double-doubles, with Rondina posting a game-high 20 points and Laure contributing across every phase of play. Still, the inability to sustain pressure in the closing sets proved costly, handing Choco Mucho its first loss after a promising start.

     

    As the All-Filipino Conference unfolds, PLDT and Cignal have done more than just win—they’ve drawn early lines in the sand, signaling that the road to the title will demand not just talent, but cohesion, patience, and execution under pressure.

     

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  • Ettore Guidetti confident Nxled has found its identity in 2026 PVL season despite past struggles

    Ettore Guidetti confident Nxled has found its identity in 2026 PVL season despite past struggles

    The Nxled Chameleons opened their 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference campaign with a statement of resilience and maturity, grinding out a dramatic five-set victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies, 25-23, 13-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-12, on Tuesday, February 3, at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan.

     

    In a match defined by long rallies, sharp momentum swings, and late-game tension, Nxled leaned heavily on poise, experience, and timely execution from its veteran core to survive a stern opening-day test. After surrendering control in the middle sets, the Chameleons steadied themselves when it mattered most—particularly in the deciding fifth set—where their composure under pressure ultimately broke Farm Fresh’s resistance and sealed a confidence-boosting win.

     

    Reigning PVL Most Valuable Player Brooke Van Sickle spearheaded the Chameleons’ charge in her much-anticipated debut for the franchise, delivering an all-around effort and finishing with 20 points. Fellow newcomer Myla Pablo proved equally vital, providing clutch scoring and defensive stability throughout the match. Pablo tallied 19 points and six digs, earning Player of the Game honors, while middle blocker MJ Phillips added 13 points and a strong presence at the net.

     

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    Despite flashes of brilliance early, Nxled found itself on the back foot after dropping the second and third sets, as Farm Fresh capitalized on defensive adjustments and controlled the tempo with disciplined floor coverage. The Foxies threatened to pull off an opening-day upset, but Nxled’s veteran trio responded with urgency, asserting themselves in the fourth set to force a decider before closing the door in the fifth.

     

    While the Chameleons have started the All-Filipino Conference on a high note, recent history paints a more sobering picture for the franchise. Nxled finished at the bottom of the standings in its first three PVL seasons, with the lone bright spot coming in a fifth-place finish at the 2025 PVL On Tour preseason tournament. Tuesday’s victory, therefore, carried significance beyond the win-loss column, serving as an early indicator of a team seeking to redefine itself.

    Nxled head coach Ettore Guidetti believes that shift is already underway, pointing to a clearer sense of purpose and ambition within the squad.

     

    “The difference about Nxled in this conference is simple to define. This is a team that wants to arrive, to play at the top of the whole conference. Before, Nxled was trying to find its own identity, to understand if it was a team to stay on the bottom, or like in the PVL on Tour in the first six,” Guidetti said in a media interaction.

     

    Although Nxled remains a relatively young team, the offseason acquisitions of Van Sickle, Pablo, and Phillips—former standouts of the Petro Gazz Angels—have dramatically reshaped the roster. The trio’s immediate chemistry and collective experience were evident, particularly during high-pressure stretches when the Chameleons needed steady leadership. Despite limited time together, their ability to make crucial plays helped stabilize the team after it teetered on the brink of an opening-day defeat.

     

    Guidetti emphasized that experience does not change his approach on the sidelines, maintaining that his coaching philosophy remains consistent regardless of a player’s background.

     

    “Honestly, I don’t switch a single part of my style of coaching. I usually coach the young and the experienced ones in the same way. I’m always trying to give them everything that I got, even if it’s not enough,” he added.

     

    The win provides Nxled with an early boost as it continues to integrate new pieces and solidify its identity over the course of the long conference. For Farm Fresh, the narrow loss offered encouraging signs under head coach Tsuzurabara’s system, particularly on the defensive end, where the Foxies showcased grit and structure that could bode well for future outings.

     

    With the Chameleons off to a winning start, Guidetti and his squad will look to carry that momentum into their next match against the Capital1 Solar Spikers on Saturday, February 7, at the Ynares Center in Montalban, as Nxled continues its push to establish itself as an early contender in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • “There are no excuses for us anymore”: Michele Gumabao confident in full-strength Creamline squad

    “There are no excuses for us anymore”: Michele Gumabao confident in full-strength Creamline squad

    The Creamline Cool Smashers, one of the Premier Volleyball League’s (PVL) most dominant teams, are determined to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 calendar year — their first season since 2018 without a single conference championship.

     

    Fresh off a historic Grand Slam in 2024, where Creamline captured all three titles — the All-Filipino, Invitational, and Reinforced Conferences — the team faced an unexpected setback last year, falling short of their lofty standards. Despite the challenges, star opposite hitter Michele Gumabao remains confident that Creamline can reclaim its winning ways in the ongoing All-Filipino Conference, pointing to the return of a fully-fit roster as a major boost.

     

    “Very motivated ang Creamline talaga. I think mas naging focused kami on the details. Mas naging mindful kami of all our mistakes and our errors and our shortcomings, so mas focused, I would say, mas determined,” Gumabao said during a media interaction.

     

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    The veteran player emphasized that the team is entering this season with a renewed sense of purpose and accountability.

     

    “There are no excuses for us anymore this year. Kompleto kami, we are healthy, and we wanna play our best, so looking forward talaga to this season if makamit namin ‘yung mga goals namin,” she added.

    One of the biggest factors in Creamline’s renewed optimism is the return of key players. The team will be at full strength this conference, welcoming back Alas Pilipinas captain Jia De Guzman, who returns after a three-year absence, and Bernadeth Pons, fresh from her stint with the Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball squad. Gumabao highlighted the significance of having a complete, healthy roster for the first time in a long while.

     

    “Sana tuloy-tuloy ‘yung pagiging healthy ng team. Ang dami naming teammates na babalik — may galing abroad, may galing national team, may galing injury. Matagal na rin na hindi kami naging kompleto sabay-sabay na conditioned. Even our first six, parang hindi pa rin talaga naglalaro for quite a while,” she said.

     

    The 33-year-old star stressed that while Creamline boasts experience and talent, they will not take anything for granted on the court. Maintaining performance and conditioning remains a priority as the team aims to regain its championship form.

     

    “Lagi namang mataas ang expectations namin for each other. We always aim to reach the end, but we still need to maintain performance and conditioning,” Gumabao concluded.

     

    Creamline is set to open their All-Filipino Conference campaign on Thursday, February 5, facing the PLDT High Speed Hitters at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan. The matchup is more than just an opener; it is an early test of whether Creamline’s renewed roster, blending returning veterans and fully conditioned stars, can quickly regain the dominance that has long defined the franchise.

     

    As the PVL All-Filipino Conference kicks off, all eyes will be on Creamline — a team seeking not just to win games, but to reestablish its legacy as a powerhouse in Philippine volleyball. With a fully-fit squad, heightened focus, and a hunger to reclaim their former glory, the Cool Smashers are poised to make a strong statement right from the opening whistle.

     

     

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  • “It’s my favorite of the year”: PLDT’s Savannah Davison on the All-Filipino Conference

    “It’s my favorite of the year”: PLDT’s Savannah Davison on the All-Filipino Conference

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters have rapidly established themselves as one of the Premier Volleyball League’s (PVL) most formidable contenders, and much of that success has been driven by the consistent performances of star outside hitter Savannah Davison.

     

    The High Speed Hitters enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2025, capturing two major titles: the PVL On Tour preseason tournament and the Invitational Conference. Davison played a pivotal role, particularly in the Invitational Conference triumph, anchoring PLDT’s offense and providing stability on both ends of the floor. Her versatility and court awareness have become central to PLDT’s identity, making her one of the league’s most dynamic players.

     

    Looking ahead to the ongoing All-Filipino Conference, the Filipino-Canadian outside hitter expressed excitement for a competition she calls her favorite of the season.

     

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    “I think the All-Filipino is my favorite conference of the year. It’s where everybody’s back, all the players from Alas are back, and there’s no imports to depend on. It’s kind of a free-for-all. There’s a lot more swag, a lot more talk, a lot more sass, and it’s exciting because the teams are really getting stronger,” Davison said in a media interaction.

    PLDT entered the All-Filipino Conference with a relatively quiet offseason in terms of roster moves. The team added middle blocker Seth Rodriguez to compensate for the departure of Dell Palomata, keeping the core of their squad intact. Davison believes this continuity and chemistry are what set the High Speed Hitters apart, allowing them to hit the ground running this season.

     

    “We came into this year knowing that we had to push each other harder in practice, push each other every day so that the game days come easier to us. Through bonding and just spending time with each other, we are able to do that without any emotional stress.

     

    It’s very easygoing within our team. When the pressure builds, we are able to talk to each other — and I think that’s a really good thing going into this year,” she added.

     

    Davison’s comments underscore the team-first mentality that has helped PLDT rise as a contender. Beyond raw talent, the High Speed Hitters rely on trust, communication, and camaraderie — qualities that can make the difference in tight matches where mental resilience is key.

     

    PLDT is set to kick off their All-Filipino Conference campaign against PVL powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers on Thursday, February 5, at the FilOil Centre. The matchup will be a litmus test for the High Speed Hitters, who are eager to make a statement in the opening game and signal that they are serious contenders in a league that has grown increasingly competitive.

     

    For Davison and her teammates, the early stages of the conference will be an opportunity to build momentum, showcase team chemistry, and remind the league that the High Speed Hitters are not just a team to watch — they are a team to beat. With a blend of experienced leaders, rising talent, and the unique leadership of Davison, PLDT enters the season with confidence, cohesion, and the swagger that comes from knowing they have the pieces to compete for the championship once again.

     

     

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  • “I’m trying to learn how to be a better motivator”: Brooke Van Sickle admits she’s still growing into a leadership role with Nxled

    “I’m trying to learn how to be a better motivator”: Brooke Van Sickle admits she’s still growing into a leadership role with Nxled

    The Nxled Chameleons leaned on composure, veteran leadership, and crisp execution in the closing moments to survive a gritty five-set showdown against the Farm Fresh Foxies, escaping with a 25-23, 13-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-12 victory in their opening match of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday, February 3, at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan.

     

    In a match that swung dramatically from set to set, the Chameleons showcased resilience and poise under pressure, steadying themselves after surrendering the second and third frames before reclaiming control in the final two sets. Nxled’s experience ultimately proved decisive, as the team capitalized on key runs late in the fourth set and executed cleanly in the race-to-15 decider.

     

    All eyes were on three-time PVL Most Valuable Player Brooke Van Sickle, who made her highly anticipated debut for Nxled and delivered an immediate impact. The Filipino-American star paced the Chameleons with an all-around effort, finishing with 20 points built on a balanced mix of power attacks, transition scoring, and floor defense. Her presence alone altered Farm Fresh’s defensive schemes, opening up opportunities for her teammates throughout the match.

     

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    Fellow debutant Myla Pablo rose to the occasion with timely scoring and steady defensive work, ending the night with 19 points and six digs to earn Player of the Game honors. Pablo’s veteran composure was especially evident in the fourth and fifth sets, where her shot selection and court awareness helped stabilize Nxled during crucial stretches. Middle blocker MJ Phillips also played a key role, contributing 13 points while anchoring the net with consistent blocking and quick attacks.

     

    Already regarded as one of the league’s premier talents, the 26-year-old Van Sickle has firmly established herself as the current standard-bearer in the PVL. With three league MVP awards to her name, she belongs to an elite class alongside Creamline Cool Smashers icons Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos, a testament to her sustained excellence and impact on the league.

    While Van Sickle has already led the Petro Gazz Angels to two PVL championships, the star admitted that her transition to Nxled has also come with new personal challenges—particularly in her role as team captain. Speaking in a recent media interaction, Van Sickle acknowledged that leadership extends beyond scoring and on-court communication.

     

    “I would always be vocal in terms of talking, but I wouldn’t be cheering my teammates on usually. That’s something I’m still kind of working on. I do talk, but I’m trying to learn how to be a better motivator and be a better, like, kind of not like a cheerleader, but be more motivating with energy. I’m trying to put that within my playing pool,” Van Sickle said.

     

    Having competed in professional volleyball leagues across the globe, Van Sickle has drawn valuable lessons from her international experiences, particularly in how leadership manifests across different team cultures. For her, age is no longer a defining factor in setting expectations, as she believes accountability and professionalism should be universal within a roster.

     

    “At this age in PVL, I don’t think really age matters. I think everyone should come in and, regardless of age, still be held the same standards and should expect the same results, same attitudes and everything.

     

    “It does help that veteran players can teach the younger ones, but to me, it’s just better if you have young players that act and are like really mature and really sound. I think at Nxled, we have a lot of young talent that also carries themselves very well, especially on the court, so I’m very happy to be surrounded by such mature players,” she concluded.

     

    With their opening win secured, the Chameleons not only announced their arrival as a composed and battle-tested unit but also offered a glimpse of a team still growing into its identity. As Nxled continues its campaign in the All-Filipino Conference, Van Sickle’s evolving leadership and the team’s blend of veteran savvy and young talent could prove pivotal in shaping a deep playoff run.

     

     

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  • Bella Belen steps up as Capital1 opens PVL AFC campaign strong

    Bella Belen steps up as Capital1 opens PVL AFC campaign strong

    Capital1’s first conference game was supposed to be about introductions — new faces, new chemistry, and a new identity taking shape in real time. Instead, it quickly became about Bella Belen.

     

    With eight newcomers around her and the Solar Spikers still figuring out their on-court rhythm, Belen walked into her second PVL stint carrying more than just the weight of expectations that come with being the No. 1 overall pick. 

     

    Hours before tip-off, she was informed she would serve as interim captain, filling in for regular skipper Roma Doromal, who was sidelined by illness.

    At 23, and among the youngest on the floor, Belen didn’t hesitate.

     

    Capital1 opened its campaign with a 25-17, 25-16, 15-25, 25-19 win over ZUS Coffee on Tuesday, and Belen made sure the moment didn’t slip away. She delivered the most complete performance of her young pro career, pouring in a career-high 28 points while anchoring the backcourt with 16 digs and seven receptions.

     

    If there were doubts about whether the sudden leadership role would weigh her down, the numbers — and her poise — erased them quickly.

     

    “In-inform din ako ni coach Jorge kahapon na if kaya ko raw ‘yung ganyan, o kapag masyadong mabigat siya for me,” Belen said.

     

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    “Sabi ko naman, kaya ko naman since for me, ‘yung being a captain, pinagkaiba niya lang is may line ka lang under your number.

     

    “Kung kahit naman hindi ako captain, I’ll try my best naman na mag-lead din ng team.”

     

    Still, Belen acknowledged that the responsibility felt different from her days at NU, where leadership came with familiarity and time. This time, she was guiding a professional roster she was only beginning to know.

     

    “Iba talaga, kasi sa NU, kasama ko na rin sila before so hindi siya ganun kahirap for me. Dito naman, hindi rin ganun kahirap since feeling ko pagdating sa game, sa Capital, walang captain-captain talaga eh,” she said.

     

    “Kung sino kayang mag-lead, kailangan mag-lead din [dahil] hindi pwedeng isa o dalawa lang po talaga ‘yung gumagana sa team.”

     

    In Capital1’s debut, the captaincy stripe may have arrived unexpectedly, but Belen showed that leadership — much like her impact — doesn’t need to be announced. It shows up in moments, decisions, and the calm that settles a team finding its footing. 

     

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  • Alas Pilipinas mainstay Owa Retamar heads to Cambodia to shine amid Spikers’ Turf hiatus

    Alas Pilipinas mainstay Owa Retamar heads to Cambodia to shine amid Spikers’ Turf hiatus

     Even with Cignal’s sudden leave from the Spikers’ Turf, Owa Retamar is set to keep the ball flying. The Alas Pilipinas Men setter will take his talents to Cambodia, suiting up for Visakha in the 4th Sar Kheng Cup from February 7 to March 1.

     

    The month-long tournament doubles as Cambodia’s national volleyball championship and allows teams to enlist one foreign guest player, giving Retamar the perfect platform to maintain form and showcase Filipino skill.

     

    “Accepting this invitation from Cambodia is my way of contributing to help sustain the visibility of Philippine men’s volleyball, especially amid the uncertainties surrounding our local teams,” Retamar said through VP Global, his management agency. “I’m excited to learn from the environment there and contribute in the best way I can.” 

     

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    At 25, Retamar is already a decorated figure in Philippine volleyball, boasting four Spikers’ Turf championships and three best setter awards with Cignal. 

     

    He also played a pivotal role in Alas Pilipinas Men’s historic run at the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship last year and helped the national team secure a bronze medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

     

    Retamar’s Cambodia stint highlights a growing trend of Filipino male volleyball players taking their skills overseas. He joins fellow imports like Bryan Bagunas in Japan, Marck Espejo in Taiwan, and Leo Aringo in Japan, proving that Philippine volleyball talent is gaining recognition beyond local shores.

     

    For Retamar, it’s more than just a temporary move—it’s an opportunity to keep competitive while serving as an ambassador for Philippine volleyball on an international stage.

     

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