PVL: VAN SICKLE, NXLED RALLY PAST FARM FRESH IN FIVE-SET THRILLER

MANILA, Philippines — Nxled, parading the championship core of the defunct Petro Gazz, overcame an early test in its 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference as it pulled off a come-from-behind, 25-23, 13-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-12 win over Farm Fresh on Tuesday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

In a matchup featuring familiar faces from the defending champions—Brooke Van Sickle and company now leading the Chameleons, and former Petro Gazz coach Koji Tsuzurabara calling the shots for the Foxies—the contest boiled down to a tense five-set duel.

With the score tied at 10-all, Van Sickle gave Nxled the lead before Myla Pablo delivered back-to-back clutch attacks. A Tubu error pushed the Chameleons to match point at 14-10.

Farm Fresh saved two match points, but Louie Romero’s service error sealed Nxled’s victory after a grueling two-hour encounter.

Three-time MVP Van Sickle finished with 20 points and 11 excellent receptions. Pablo had 19 points in her debut with the Chameleons, while MJ Phillips added 13 points.

Rookie Lyann De Guzman provided a boost off the bench with seven points, helping Nxled dominate the fourth set to force a decider. Setter Jules Tolentino also impressed with 12 excellent sets and five points.

Tubu scored 28 points on 25 kills, but it was not enough. Ces Molina tallied 14 points, 15 receptions and eight digs, while Royse Tubino chipped in 13 points off the bench.

2026-02-03T11:16:53Z