Lyann de Guzman's journey has been defined by evolution, mentorship, and relentless growth.
And now, she’s ready to take another leap — this time in the professional ranks with the Nxled Chameleons.
Selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft held at Novotel Hotel, the 5-foot-10 outside spiker is set to bring her all-around game and championship pedigree to a team eager to turn its fortunes around. For De Guzman, this moment is not just a milestone but a continuation of her education under some of the world’s finest volleyball minds.
“Siyempre, very honored ako na maging coach ko sila Coach Ettore, sila Coach Sergio kasi very different talaga siya — yung mga systems nila, how they coach. For me, it’s another opportunity na mag-improve pa yung skills ko,” she said, referring to her past and present mentors — Brazilian tactician Sergio Veloso, who molded her at Ateneo, and now Italian coach Ettore Guidetti, who leads Nxled.
While Nxled missed out on the top overall pick despite having the best odds in the draft lottery, they still hit a jackpot with De Guzman, a steady, high-IQ player with leadership qualities and a well-rounded skill set. Her selection at No. 4 was a pleasant surprise — even to her.
“Siyempre, I’m very happy kasi hindi ko rin naman ine-expect na top four makakapasok ako. I’m really excited to play with the team since yun nga, mostly half of the team naging teammates ko na,” she said with a grin.
The move reunites her with former Ateneo teammates Jaja Maraguinot and Jaycel Delos Reyes — a familiarity that could fast-track chemistry in a rebuilding squad. This added comfort, paired with her hunger to grow under a new system, paints a promising picture for the Chameleons.
Nxled ended the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference with a dismal 1-10 record, languishing at the bottom of the standings. But De Guzman sees a canvas of potential in the team’s youthful core and a culture that’s just beginning to take shape.
“Actually, I can see a lot of improvements din sa team na ito. Siyempre, bago rin yung team, mga ilang years pa lang sila. Definitely excited na matutunan yung bagong system and, of course, maibigay ko rin yung kung anong natutunan ko kay Coach Sergio,” she said.
At Ateneo, De Guzman was not just a reliable scorer but also a leader on and off the court, someone who embraced tough roles and thrived under pressure. Her experiences playing under Veloso’s analytical and precise system will now serve her well under Guidetti’s European flair and competitive edge.
