Bella Belen played through a taped right wrist and still delivered the best scoring night of her professional career. Her 35 points Thursday, October 15, rescued Capital1 from a second straight loss in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference.

The top overall pick of the 2025 PVL Draft powered Capital1 past Akari, 28-26, 22-25, 25-15, 23-25, 21-19, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. She did it with a heavily taped hand, turning a physical challenge into a defining performance.

Belen’s Career-High Night Powers Capital1 Past Akari

Akari pushed Capital1 to the limit by taking the second and fourth sets, 25-22 and 25-23. Belen delivered when it mattered most, helping the Solar Spikers escape with a five-set win.

The former National University standout was nearly unstoppable on offense, finishing with 34 attacks and a block. She also added 20 excellent digs and 19 excellent receptions, contributing on both ends of the floor rather than just scoring.

Belen had scored 15 points in Capital1’s season-opening five-set loss to Choco Mucho. Her 35-point follow-up, more than double that output, was an encouraging response as the Solar Spikers search for their footing in the new conference.

Belen refused to be complacent about the milestone. “Lagi ko lang tinitingnan kung meron pa akong kayang i-improve,” said the Capital1 star, who believes there were still plays she should have made.

Her approach to the game has not changed despite the career night. She said that “every time maglalaro ako with my team, lagi kong iniisip kung paano ko mai-improve ‘yung game ko.”

Belen also credited the confidence and support of her coaches and teammates for helping her deliver under pressure. That backing mattered because she continued to play through a right wrist injury, with her hand heavily taped throughout the match.

Capital1 Coach De Brito Praises Belen’s Leadership in PVL

Capital1 head coach Jorge Souza de Brito was impressed by his star player’s production. He also placed equal value on how Belen handled the game’s most demanding moments, especially with the match on the line.

For the Brazilian mentor, Belen’s growing leadership is as significant as her scoring. Rather than carrying the team through individual brilliance alone, she has helped teammates stay composed and trust one another when matches hang in the balance.

De Brito said he respects the performance but also expects the team to support her. “She didn’t do it all alone, but what she did was amazing,” he said.

De Brito also praised her demeanor on the court. “It’s not just about the score or the points, but also her behavior on the court, leading the team and helping everyone trust not only her but also the system and each other,” he added.

Capital1 failed to reach the playoffs in the previous conference, and that disappointment continues to fuel Belen. With additional talent joining the roster, she is determined to help the franchise turn its potential into tangible results.

Belen said the previous conference remains her main source of motivation. “Last conference, ‘di kami nakapasok sa playoffs. So parang this conference, mas maraming dumagdag na skillful players,” she said.

The added talent has renewed her optimism as the team gradually builds chemistry and confidence. “I feel like we have a chance na maging mas maganda pa ‘yung performance namin compared last conference,” she added.

With Capital1 building momentum game by game and training by training, Belen’s career-best night may mark only the beginning. The Solar Spikers now look to turn that growth into a stronger run in the All-Filipino Conference.