MANILA, Philippines – National University star Bella Belen is adamant she is still far away from what Creamline legend Alyssa Valdez tabbed her as a “perfect player” due to her impressive skillset.
“It’s a high compliment for me, especially coming from ate Alyssa Valdez, but I think I’m not the one she is describing as a ‘perfect player,'” Belen said in Filipino after a 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 25-23, 15-8 win against the FEU Lady Tamaraws on Sunday, February 23.
“I see that I still have more to improve on as a player and as a person, and it’s a huge honor to have somebody like ate (Alyssa) appreciating,” she added.
Valdez and Belen, who both play as outside hitter, were both named as UAAP Most Valuable Player multiple times in their illustrious collegiate careers.
Belen, who is likely playing her final collegiate season, has a strong chance to tie Valdez’ three UAAP MVP awards this Season 87
The two also share time in training as the former PVL MVP also train with the NU Lady Bulldogs when Creamline does not.
“She’s perfect — from defense, passing, to spiking…as a leader, (Belen’s very effective in all aspects),” Valdez said in a previous interview.
“You really can’t compare, she’s one of a kind.”
Both teams are coached by Sherwin Meneses, with the coach starting his stint this UAAP Season 87 in a bid to win back-to-back titles.
He helped lead the Cool Smashers to the PVL’s first-ever Grand Slam in the 2023-2024 season.
As an eager player, Belen is ready to absorb knowledge from her ate.
“We get insights from her, she gives feedback, and it’s a huge thing we are being mentored by coach Sherwin,” raved Belen.
The common thing, according to Meneses, is not looking ahead and keeping it one possession at a time, something that has helped both teams pull off comeback wins. – Rappler.com