PVL: Lucille Almonte banks on her versatility as she joins Nxled

Nxled’s fifth overall pick Lucille Almonte led seven former Adamson Lady Falcons who were selected in the PVL Rookie Draft.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Lucille Almonte is raring to prove her worth in the pros as she opens a new chapter in her career with the Nxled Chameleons in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.

Despite getting a reduced role in her final UAAP stint with the Adamson Lady Falcons, Almonte was selected as Nxled’s fifth overall pick in the first-ever Rookie Drat on Monday at Novotel.

“I’m nervous because this is it, the first step of my life in the pros,” Almonte told reporters in Filipino. “For sure I will learn a lot and I’m so grateful that Nxled picked me.”

READ: PVL: Almonte leads all seven Adamson players taken in draft

The Adamson captain saw her playing time reduced in her final year in Season 86 as the rebuilding Lady Falcons slid from last year’s bronze medalist to seventh place with a 3-11 record.

After not getting the ending she wanted for her collegiate career, Almonte seeks redemption in her first year with Nxled, which finished eighth in the All-Filipino with a 4-7 record.

“I’m happy because I found a [new home] and I only had a few [playing] time in the UAAP. This time, I will give my 100 percent to my team,” said one of the seven Lady Falcons drafted in the PVL.

READ: Almonte hopes to redeem self in PVL after down final year with Adamson

Almonte’s entry was a timely boost for the Chameleons, who are fielding a retooled roster with Bang Pineda, Jaja Maraguinot, and Trisha Genesis in exchange for Ivy Lacsina, Kamille Cal, Cams Victoria, and Dani Ravena to their sister team Akari. Dindin Santiago-Manabat was supposed to be part of the deal but she opted out and signed with Choco Mucho.

The incoming rookie accepts the challenge, offering her versatility and flexibility to what her coaches want her to do.

“I will wholeheartedly accept whatever challenge they will give me because I’m one of the players who are versatile and quick to adjust,” Almonte said.

Nxled kicks off its Reinforced campaign against Galeries Tower on opening day in Pool A, which includes Creamline, PLDT, Chery Tiggo, and Farm Fresh.