Soon-to-be-awarded UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year Shaina Nitura has officially joined the training pool of Alas Pilipinas after her historic first season with the Adamson Lady Falcons.
Adamson super rookie Shaina Nitura has officially joined the Alas Pilipinas Women in training, marking her first steps toward the international stage.
The Lady Falcons star was spotted in a photo posted by the team’s official social media account, training alongside fellow call-ups Eya Laure, Vanie Gandler, Thea Gagate, Maddie Madayag, and Dell Palomata.
Also already in camp are setters Julia Coronel and Mars Alba, liberos Dawn Catindig and Tia Andaya, as the national team continues its buildup for the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup in June and other international competitions.
Nitura, who was included in the 33-woman wishlist submitted by Alas Pilipinas head coach Jorge De Brito, turned heads after a record-breaking rookie season in the UAAP.
The 20-year-old spiker, who will take home the UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year honors, set the league record for most points scored in a debut game with 33 points. Nitura then shattered the overall scoring record with a 38-point eruption just two weeks after.
“First day, we just asked her [to do] some basic skills. She showed in UAAP how talented she is,” De Brito told One Sports. “We are happy because she is here enjoying this special moment.”
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While Nitura’s spot on the final roster is not yet guaranteed, her early presence in training is a promising sign for both her development and the future of the national team.
De Brito will also hope to have other UAAP and PVL stars in the fold in the coming days and weeks.