NXLED gets an early chance to test its mettle against a battle-tested PLDT side, with the anticipated return of Brooke van Sickle adding intrigue to their marquee showdown in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Chameleons and the High Speed Hitters collide at 6 p.m. in the main event of a PVL doubleheader in a fitting follow up to the rousing Season 10 opener in Cebu City.
All eyes will be on Van Sickle, who is expected to suit up for Nxled after missing the entire PVL on Tour and Invitational due to a minor shoulder injury.
A many-time MVP, Van Sickle leads a Chameleons roster loaded with talent, including Myla Pablo, MJ Phillips, Jonah Escamillan, and EJ Cariño.
Former Cignal standouts Jackie Acuña and Gel Cayuna, meanwhile, provide additional experience and support.
Van Sickle’s return, however, will be tested immediately by a PLDT squad armed with championship pedigree, proven chemistry and considerable depth.
Savi Davison leads the High Speed Hitters’ charge and looms as Van Sickle’s marquee counterpart in a matchup that could set the tone for the conference. The Fil-Canadian ace has an imposing supporting cast, led by opposite hitter Kim Kianna Dy and middle blockers Majoy Baron, Mika Reyes, and returning Dell Palomata.
Kim Fajardo and Angge Alcantara will share playmaking duties, while premier libero Kath Arado anchors the team’s floor defense.
