ZUS coffee, previously known as Strong Group Athletics, will own the Premier Volleyball League’s (PVL) first-ever draft pick after winning the lottery of the 2024 PVL Rookie Draft on Monday, June 24, at the TV5 Media Center in Mandaluyong City.
Entering with a 40% chance to win the number one pick, the Thunderbelles earned the top selection after their winless campaign record in the season-opening All-Filipino Conference.
Photo Courtesy: Pilipinas Live | Facebook
“First of all, we’re very happy for ZUS Coffee kasi kami yung first pick so we have a bigger chance or better chance kung sino yung pipiliin namin,” said Farm Fresh assistant Justine Dorog, who spoke for ZUS Coffee head coach Jerry Yee.
“Kasi since kami yung first, mas makakapili kami kung sino talaga yung best for the team. I hope na yung first team namin, makatulong talaga siya sa team” She added.
De La Salle star Thea Gagate is expected to be the first pick after successfully playing a pivotal role in the Lady Spikers’ run to the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball championship which saw her win 1st Best Middle Blocker.
Meanwhile, Capital1 will have the second overall pick, followed by Galeries Tower with the third, and Farm Fresh at fourth.
The PVL Most Valuable Player winners Brooke Van Sickle of Petro Gazz, Sisi Rondina of Choco Mucho, and Ces Molina of Cignal drew the ballots together with Commissioner Sherwin Meneses and Games and Amusement Board representative Eliza Roman who were also present on the event.
All draftees will participate in a two-day combine at Gameville Ballpark in Sheridan on Tuesday, June 25, and Wednesday, June 26.
The first-ever PVL Draft will take place on July 8 at the Novotel Manila in Quezon City.
With reports from Rose Cath Ogrimen
