MANILA — Nxled Chameleons halted a four-game losing streak and kept themselves in the hunt in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference after defeating ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 20-25, 25-15, 25-23, 25-19, Thursday night at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan.
Nxled regrouped after dropping the opening set and gradually took control of the match behind a balanced attack and steady defense to improve to a 4-4 record in the qualifying round.
Chiara Permentilla delivered crucial points in the fourth set, scoring three of the Chameleons’ final five markers, including the match-clinching hit that pierced through two defenders.
“This game is very important. This conference is very unpredictable. There’s no undefeated team right now, so every point matters. I’m very proud of my team to be able to lock in, focus and bounce back,” said Brooke Van Sickle.
Van Sickle powered Nxled with a triple-double performance of 20 points, 12 excellent receptions, and 10 digs, while Jonah Sabete-Escamillan contributed 19 markers and MarJana Phillips added 12.
Despite the loss, ZUS Coffee (1-7) drew strong offensive efforts from several players. Thea Gagate led the Thunderbelles with 16 points, Cess Robles finished with 13, and veteran Jovelyn Gonzaga added 11 markers.
In the other featured match, Akari Power Chargers continued their resurgence by defeating powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers, 25-21, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21.
The victory marked Akari’s fourth straight win, lifting the Power Chargers to a 4-3 record in the standings.
Justine Jazareno anchored Akari’s defense with 22 excellent digs and eight excellent receptions to earn Player of the Game honors.
Ivy Lacsina led the Power Chargers offensively with 20 points built on 18 attacks, one block, and one service ace, while Christine Joy Soyud and Gretchel Soltones chipped in 15 and 14 points, respectively.
For Creamline, Jessica Galanza finished with 16 points while Diana Carlos added 10, as the Cool Smashers saw their five-game winning streak snapped and dropped to a 5-2 record./PN
