Quezon City: Capital1 is set to secure Bella Belen from the National University as the top overall pick in the second Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft, which will be held at the Novotel Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Belen, a three-time UAAP MVP, will be among 57 candidates from the UAAP, NCAA, provincial circuits, and international backgrounds participating in the draft, which starts at 7 p.m. The Solar Spikers, who have a 7-24 win-loss record after three conferences, are aiming to strengthen their team with Belen's acquisition.
Roger Gorayeb, former head coach and now consultant for Capital1, expressed optimism about the team's future. 'After one year and three months, we're finally close to completing this team,' he said. Brazilian Olympic coach Jorge de Brito has replaced Gorayeb as the head coach of the Solar Spikers. Gorayeb emphasized the importance of choosing the right player, highlighting Belen's versatility and her successful track record with the NU Lady Bulldogs.
Galeries Tower has the second pick in the draft, followed by Farm Fresh and Nxled, completing the four-team lottery draw. The rest of the first round will proceed with ZUS Coffee, Cignal, Choco Mucho, Chery Tiggo, PLDT, Akari, Petro Gazz, and Creamline making their selections in that order.
In the second round, the Chameleons will have the first pick, followed by the Solar Spikers, Foxies, and Highrisers, with the remaining order unchanged. Other notable talents in this year's draft include AC Miner, Tia Andaya, Alohi Robins-Hardy, Alleiah Malaluan, Jyne Sore±o, Erin Pangilinan, Pia Abbu, Sheena Toring, Chenie Tagaod, Jean Asis, Riza Nogales, and Mycah Go.
