Nxled's unbeaten start to the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab series has been powered by a formidable defensive unit, with Jackie Acuña emerging as one of the Chameleons' most reliable weapons at the net.
While the Chameleons have made an early statement with five consecutive victories, Acuña has been instrumental in establishing their defensive identity, turning the net into a difficult obstacle for opposing attackers.
Nxled currently leads the league in blocking, averaging 13.8 blocks per game, with the 26-year-old middle blocker accounting for a significant share of that production. Acuña is averaging 3.4 blocks per outing, making her the team's leading presence in the department.
For the former PVL Best Middle Blocker, however, the numbers are not simply a product of instinct or physical ability. Much of her success comes from the work done before every match, particularly studying opponents and identifying their attacking tendencies.
“Talagang as a blocker, ginagawa ko yung best ko,” said Acuña, who delivered seven points, including three blocks, in Nxled's commanding 25-13, 25-20, 25-18 sweep of Capital1 on Saturday at the Philsports Arena.
“Talagang inaaral ko yung opponents ko. Once na mapabagal ko yung bola or ma-block ko, malaking tulong yun sa teammates ko sa likod."
Her approach reflects an understanding that effective blocking goes beyond putting up a strong wall. Slowing down an opponent's attack or getting a touch on the ball gives the defenders behind her a better opportunity to make a play.
Acuña also acknowledged the influence of head coach Ettore Guidetti, whose guidance has helped her improve her reads and become more comfortable executing Nxled's defensive system.
“And with the help of our coaches, Coach Ettore always guides me, and I’m very thankful for that. Yieee, charot,” she added.
Behind her growing confidence at the net is a preparation routine built on discipline and attention to detail. Acuña explained that the coaching staff puts considerable effort into breaking down opposing teams, with Guidetti personally illustrating the adjustments and tendencies they need to recognize.
“Yung secret ko? Tulog lang. Charot. Yung effort lang sa pag-aaral kasi yung binibigay nila, Coach talagang dinadrawing niya. Inaaral din niya talaga by himself. And ayun, tulog at tiyaga,” she said.
That combination of preparation, patience, and execution has helped Acuña become a central figure in Nxled's early-season success.
