By NIKOLE JAVIER
Alas Pilipinas middle blocker Thea Gagate is poised to become the top overall pick in the first-ever Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft on Monday, July 8, at the Novotel in Quezon City.
With the Reinforced Conference set to kick off a week later, nearly all teams have announced their respective imports for the much-awaited offering.
However, all eyes will be on the top rookies fresh off the collegiate scene, with former De La Salle stars and Alas Pilipinas standouts Gagate, Julia Coronel and former La Salle star Leila Cruz among the targeted options.
The talent-rich pool will have 47 aspirants looking to make the leap to the pro rank and secure a spot in the 12-team grid.
The Thunderbelles, who will be the first-picking team, narrowed their options down to Gagate as head coach Jerry Yee has expressed his desire to add firepower to the lineup.
“I think we all agreed that the first name we wanted is Thea. So, I’m here to look at the 13th pick,” said Yee during the recent PVL Draft Combine.
Capital1, with the second pick, looks to select a reliable wing spiker to become the team’s cornerstone, while Galeries Tower will likely opt for the best available talent to fill the gaps in their roster.
“Mas priority ko yung papalo, kasi kapag kumuha ako ng setter, mababangko lang kasi iba yung experience ni Iris (Tolenada) eh. Sayang naman kung kukuha ako (ng setter) tapos mabe-bench lang. Gusto ko yung kukunin ko, mapapakinabangan ko na, mapapasok ko na sa team. First six na namin, ayun ang plano ko,” said Solar Spikers head coach Roger Gorayeb.
For the Highrisers, top deputy Godfrey Okumu said: “We’re looking for a middle player because we just lost one. We also need an outside spiker and a third setter since we only have two.”
Farm Fresh, holding the fourth pick, is eyeing Lady Spikers stars Thea Gagate and Cruz, should they become available.
