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Capital1 prized rookie Bella Belen. PVL Media Bureau
RODRIGUEZ, Rizal — Capital1 prized rookie Bella Belen said Tuesday that she was happy to debut in the professional scene, but regrets that it came in losing fashion.
The Solar Spikers absorbed a tough 31-33, 24-26, 23-25 defeat at the hands of Choco Mucho Flying Titans to kick off their 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign at Ynares Center Montalban.
Belen added that they could have pushed further, but ultimately, they lacked the firepower to overcome their rivals.
"Siyempre, I'm very happy kasi 'yung nga, nakapaglaro na ako. But sadly, hindi kami nanalo. Sayang kasi parang feeling ko kaya naman na ma-push pa 'yung game pero kinapos kami," said Belen, reflecting on her Capital1 debut.
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The 2025 PVL Rookie Draft No. 1 overall pick said she's just looking for ways to contribute to the team, adding that she's not mindful of the statistics.
In just her first game, she dropped a triple-double of 20 points, 18 excellent digs, and 12 excellent receptions.
"Ako naman po, kasi lagi ko lang iniisip kung ano ‘yung kaya kong i-contribute sa game, and kung ano pa ‘yung mga kaya kong gawin sa mga susunod na games kasi like ‘yung mga scores, mga stats, hindi ko naman masyado iniisip, kailangan ko lang talaga mag-perform nang maayos," she said.
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The three-time UAAP MVP and champ hopes to overcome the jitters and surpass her game further.
"Feeling ko, mas kaya ko pa siyang itaas. Mas may kaya pa akong gawin pero okay na rin siguro since first game, so may jitters, ganyan. I think, mas kaya ko pa siyang gandahan pa sa susunod na games."