PVL Invitational: Nxled bounces back by taking down PLDT

Nxled’s MJ Phillips tries to score against PLDT’s Mika Reyes in the PVL Invitational Conference.–PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Nxled swept defending champion PLDT, 25-19, 25-22, 25-20, to barge into the win column in the PVL Invitational Conference on Tuesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Licking the wounds of their four-set loss to Creamline less than 24 hours ago, the Chameleons found a much-needed spark from MJ Phillips and Lyann De Guzman to tie their victims at 1-1.

Phillips, a two-time Finals MVP, fired four aces, eight spikes, and a block, while De Guzman came off the bench with 10 points and nine digs.

Nxled coach Ettore Guidetti, Lyann De Guzman, and MJ Phillips after their first win in the PVL Invitational. #PVL2026 @inquirersports pic.twitter.com/ruPapYGwou

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) September 1, 2026

The Filipino-American middle blocker nailed three aces and connected with De Guzman’s clutch kills for an 8-0 run and a 22-16 lead.

De Guzman and Jovelyn Fernandez sent Nxled to match point, 24-19, before Leila Cruz’s attack error sealed their win.

Myla Pablo also stepped up with 12 points, highlighted by three blocks, and tallied nine digs as they continued to miss Brooke Van Sickle due to a shoulder injury. Jonah Sabete-Escamillan had nine points and 15 excellent receptions, while setter Gel Cayuna made 15 excellent sets on top of three points.

Savi Davison, coming off a 30-point performance in a victory over Thailand’s EST Cola on Monday, stayed hot with 20 points and 16 excellent receptions, but not enough to lift PLDT, which had 21 errors. Mika Reyes chipped in eight points.