Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, and MJ Phillips welcomed a fresh start with Nxled as they look to help lead the Chameleons towards PVL title contention.
After years of championship contention with Petro Gazz, Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, and MJ Phillips now find themselves at the heart of a very different challenge with Nxled.
The trio became available following the Angels’ leave of absence from the PVL, opening the door to one of the league’s most dramatic offseason shifts. Rather than viewing the move as a step back, the star trio sees it as an opportunity to reset, grow, and help shape the Chameleons’ new identity.
Van Sickle admitted that leaving behind a familiar environment was not easy, but she welcomed the chance to embrace change and step outside her comfort zone.
“I mean, change is always good. I think it’s good to get out of your comfort zone. We’re still grateful for Petro Gazz for having us join that family, and unfortunately, it’s no longer a team, but we’re really excited to be a part of Nxled,” said Van Sickle.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Brooke Van Sickle finds ‘peak life’ after first All-Filipino title with Petro Gazz]
For Pablo, the move to Nxled also means working closely with a younger core, which she believes can benefit both sides as the Chameleons rebuild after a challenging year.
The 32-year-old spiker added that adapting to another new system under Italian head coach Ettore Guidetti is something she looks forward to, given her experience under foreign tacticians in the past.
“Sobrang excited din kasi, especially na makakasama ko ‘yung young players,” Pablo shared. “I’m excited din na may matutunan ako sa kanila. And also as a veteran, I hope may matutunan din sila sakin.”
“Siyempre, I’m really excited din with coach Ettore kung paano siya magpa-training. I know na bagong sistema pero for sure hindi na kami mahihirapan din talaga.”
[ALSO READ: No stranger to facing Creamline, Myla Pablo relishes another PVL title with Petro Gazz]
Meanwhile, Phillips acknowledged Nxled’s recent place in the standings but believes the challenge is part of the appeal.
“Nxled, they came from the bottom, or one of the bottom teams. So it’s gonna be a challenge, but we’re all up for it,” the Fil-Am middle blocker said.
"I'm just glad that a lot of the Petro Gazz girls are with me still. And to be able to be with new players, it's just like a fresh start. I'm like really excited for what we have to showcase next.”
[ALSO READ: Imports? Brooke Van Sickle, MJ Phillips emphasize local roots as Petro Gazz nabs PVL All-Filipino title]
With Van Sickle, Pablo, and Phillips on board, all eyes will be on the Chameleons as they introduce themselves as legit title contenders come the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
(With reports from Mei-lin Lozada/One Sports Digital)
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.