De Guzman still stands out in star-studded Nxled roster
Nxled coach Ettore Guidetti’s decision to draft Lyann de Guzman at No. 4 still seems to be a very wise move, with the former Ateneo ace continuing to deliver even with the addition of the star-studded championship core of Petro Gazz led by three-time PVL MVP Brooke Van Sickle.
The Chameleons creamed Capital1 and top overall choice Bella Belen, 25-18, 28-26, 25-18, on Saturday to stay undefeated in two games in the young All-Filipino Conference eliminations, as Van Sickle and Myla Pablo scored 15 points each at Ynares Center Montalban.
But De Guzman clearly was a big difference, and the Italian coach didn’t mince words in justifying his selection of the former Blue Eagles skipper—even if they had the No. 1 pick in the last Draft.
“I’m happier every single day about her effort and her attitude during the practice,” Guidetti said after De Guzman scored 13 points off 12 kills. “I don’t remember a single practice that she didn’t try her best.
“Obviously, there are good days and bad days for every one of us, but having players like this is a real pleasure to coach.”
De Guzman proved she can deliver as a starter or off-the-bench player, whether as an outside or opposite hitter. She was instrumental off the bench in their campaign opener on Tuesday, when she helped the Chameleons complete a comeback against Farm Fresh in five sets.
“It’s really about sticking to the coach’s system. With the new role he gave me, I just accepted it,” De Guzman said. “Back in college, I played opposite anyway. Whatever coach needs, I’ll give what I can.”
Her new teammates from the defunct Angels, who were technically the defending champions here, also bring out the best in the 23-year-old rookie.
“We have very healthy competition in the team. Everyone is willing to step up and help,” De Guzman went on. “You can see that it’s not a one-(wo)man show, everyone really wants to contribute to getting the win.
“Everyone knows what to do on the court,” she explained. “Everyone has experience since they’ve been the pros for a while, so the chemistry comes easier. Everyone is also willing to learn from each other.”
Despite the strong start, Guidetti said that the Chameleons still have a lot to work on and they hope to address all of that starting with their clash with Cignal on Valentine’s Day at Ynares Center Antipolo.
“We have to improve in one week, we’re going to play another very big team,” Guidetti said. “So every single week there is enough time to [take] a little step [forward].”
