Capital1 coach Roger Gorayeb and three-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA – If it were up to Capital1 coach Roger Gorayeb, the Solar Spikers would use their number one overall pick on three-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Bella Belen.
Gorayeb said Saturday that if he were given the outright choice, he would pick the National University superstar, citing the need for Belen's playing style.
"Mahirap magsalita nang tapos pero ako, kung ako pipili, Belen ako, Belen talaga," Gorayeb told reporters during Day 2 of the PVL Draft Combine 2025 at Paco Arena.
READ: The 1 in Capital1: Solar Spikers get first pick in PVL Draft
"Kasi, kailangan namin 'yung style ng laro niya. Magbe-blend nang husto doon sa team namin. Eh alam mo naman, nagpapalakas kami. Kaya, piliin na namin 'yung first choice na magaling talaga," he added.
The seasoned tactician lauded Belen's choice of staying in the Philippines, proceeding with the PVL Rookie Draft 2025.
READ: 'Buo na 'yung loob ko': Bella Belen to proceed with PVL Draft
Gorayeb also disclosed one perk of playing with the Romero-owned squad.
"Sa akin, maganda 'yung decision niya ngayon kasi iba 'yan eh. Iba yung opportunity na makapaglaro pa rin. If they're looking for a good salary, maganda talaga dito."
Gorayeb said they need an outside spiker and a middle blocker.
The 5-foot-8 Belen, a decorated outside spiker from NU, surely fits Gorayeb's preference.
"At least, mauuna ako sa pagpili. Mapipili ko 'yung kailangan talaga. Kailangan na lang naman namin, sa ngayon ah, isang outside at isang middle siguro."