Capital1 eyes Belen as No. 1 overall pick in PVL draft

Category : Sports | Sub Category : Volleyball Posted on 2025-06-07 07:46:03

PNA

MANILA – Capital1 is expected to secure Bella Belen of the National University, the top overall pick in the second Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft at the Novotel Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City on Sunday.

Belen, a three-time UAAP MVP, will be joined by 56 others from the UAAP, NCAA, provincial circuits, and overseas in the draft starting at 7 p.m.

The Solar Spikers, with a 7-24 win-loss record after three conferences, aim to build a competitive core with the acquisition of Belen.

“After one year and three months, we’re finally close to completing this team,” said Roger Gorayeb, former head coach of Capital1 and now the team’s consultant.

Brazilian Olympic coach Jorge de Brito replaced Gorayeb as the Solar Spikers head coach.

“When I started, there wasn’t even a full roster. Now, after 15 months, the situation is looking up. That’s why it’s crucial we select the player we really want," Gorayeb added, praising Belen's versatility and proven success with the NU Lady Bulldogs.

Galeries Tower will pick second, followed by Farm Fresh and Nxled to complete the four-team lottery draw.

The remainder of the first round will see ZUS Coffee, Cignal, Choco Mucho, Chery Tiggo, PLDT, Akari, Petro Gazz, and Creamline make their choices in that order.

In the succeeding round, the Chameleons will have the first pick, followed by the Solar Spikers, Foxies, and Highrisers, with the rest of the order unchanged.

Other standouts in this year’s draft are AC Miner, Tia Andaya, Alohi Robins-Hardy, Alleiah Malaluan, Jyne Soreño, Erin Pangilinan, Pia Abbu, Sheena Toring, Chenie Tagaod, Jean Asis, Riza Nogales, and Mycah Go.