Capital1 Solar Spikers coach Roger Gorayeb has strongly indicated that three-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen is the frontrunner to be selected No. 1 overall in the upcoming 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, set for June at Novotel Manila in Cubao.

“Mahirap magsalita ng tapos, pero kung ako pipili – Belen ako,” Gorayeb said 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 secured the top pick in the recent draft lottery, are in position to land the dynamic National University star and bolster their growing lineup.

Enhanced Combine puts spotlight on talent

The second edition of the PVL Draft Combine introduced significant improvements compared to last year. Activities were centralized to a single court for Day 2, allowing scouts and team officials full focus on the athletes. This year’s format featured enhanced skill drills and simulated game situations.

Morning drills were led by a team of volleyball and conditioning experts, including Babes Castillo. Though Belen missed the first day due to prior obligations, she participated in Day 2 before leaving early for Alas Pilipinas training at Philsports Arena.

In the afternoon, hopefuls were tested in two competitive setups – “Queen of the Court” and “Moneyball” – designed to simulate high-pressure game scenarios and evaluate composure and adaptability.

“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 poised for a major leap

Following last year’s selection of Leila Cruz as the No. 2 overall pick, Capital1 is now on the verge of adding another elite young player in Belen. Gorayeb expressed confidence that Belen can anchor their youthful core and help the Solar Spikers become one of the PVL’s most competitive teams.

“This is our chance to get a player who can lead and make an impact right away,” said Gorayeb, who emphasized the importance of selecting the best talent available.

Malonzo added that some team owners have begun inviting prospects to training sessions for a more in-depth evaluation beyond the Combine. “It’s like an extended tryout to see how they blend with team systems,” he said.

The 2025 draft features a record 60 participants, up from 47 last year. The batch includes seven Filipino-foreign players and nine provincial standouts, reflecting the PVL’s growing nationwide and international influence under Sports Vision’s management.

With Bella Belen poised to be the top pick, the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the league and its future stars.