NXLED dedicates latest win to May Luna's late mother

MANILA, Philippines — The NXLED Chameleons had extra motivation against sister team Akari Chargers on Tuesday, as they kept their teammate May Luna in mind after the latter endured loss.

The former DLSU standout was recently plunged into grief after the passing of her mother over the weekend. But instead of going home to Davao and taking a break from volleyball, she returned to practice to aid the Chameleons in their chase for a semis seat.

When NXLED went into the court, all players, as well as head coach Taka Minowa, were wearing white ribbons in honor of the late matriarch.

After the win, starting setter Kamille Cal spoke about the team’s intentions heading into the match.

“It’s for the mother of ate May who just passed away the other day. So, instead of going home, she decided to stay and play for this game [vs. Akari]. So, ayun. Kaya sobrang naging emotional din yung panalo namin kanina, it’s because of her,” said Cal.

Luna played inspired volleyball against the Chargers, finishing with a team-high 14 points, which snapped a five-game losing streak since winning their opening game in the conference.

Moving up to 2-5 in the standings, Cal relished the win even more with the weight it took off Luna’s shoulders.

“It was very fulfilling. Other than wanting to win against our sister team, we had another motivation. And it was more of a spiritual and emotional type of motivation because it was special,” she said.

Luna herself was visibly emotional after the victory.

Now with new found vigor, the Chameleons hope to keep it going on Thursday when they face the Galeries Tower Highrisers.