Veteran Capital1 coach Roger Gorayeb has all but confirmed what has long been anticipated – three-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen is the likely No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2025 PVL Rookie Draft.
“Mahirap magsalita ng tapos, pero kung ako pipili – Belen ako,” said Gorayeb at the conclusion of the 2025 PVL Draft Combine held at Paco Arena on Saturday. “Kailangan namin 'yung style ng laro niya. Magbe-blend siya sa team namin. Kaya pipiliin na namin 'yung best available talent talaga.”
The Solar Spikers, who won the coveted top pick in the recent lottery draw, appear poised to select Belen, a dynamic National U standout, in the draft set for June at Novotel Manila in Cubao.
Compared to last year’s inaugural Draft Combine, which featured basic scrimmages across two courts, the 2025 edition introduced several format improvements to better showcase player skills. The league centralized Day 2 activities to a single court for full attention from scouts and team officials, while enhancing competitive formats.
Morning drills were conducted by independent volleyball and conditioning coaches, led by Babes Castillo. Belen participated despite missing Day 1 due to prior commitments but left early to attend the Alas Pilipinas practice at Philsports Arena.
In the afternoon, players engaged in two game formats – “Queen of the Court” and “Moneyball” – designed to simulate pressure situations and assess individual and team-oriented play.
“Mas maraming games. Doon mo makikita kung sino 'yung may composure, sino 'yung lalaro under pressure,” said PVL commissioner Sherwin Malonzo. “Para siyang one-day tournament para makita lahat ng laro.”
Capital1, which selected Leila Cruz with the second overall pick last year, is in prime position to become a top contender. With Belen likely joining the squad, the Solar Spikers are expected to accelerate their growth as one of the league’s most promising young teams.
Gorayeb expressed strong confidence in Belen’s ability to lead a youthful core into a top-contending squad.
Malonzo also encouraged PVL teams to bring draft hopefuls into team training sessions to further evaluate talent and team fit.
“Some team owners were already happy with what they saw. I encouraged them to invite these prospects – parang tryout na rin – to help confirm if they're really the right picks,” added Malonzo.
This year’s draft saw a record 60 participants – up from 47 last year – including seven Filipino-foreign players and nine provincial hopefuls, reflecting the growing reach and prestige of the league organized by Sports Vision.
