Capital1 co-owner Milka Romero called the team’s PVL Draft lottery win a turning point, emphasizing that securing the no. 1 pick is key to shaping the Solar Spikers' long-term identity.
Capital1 Solar Spikers co-owner Milka Romero called it a moment of gratitude and opportunity after the young franchise secured the no. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, beating the odds at Monday’s draft lottery held at the TV5 Media Center.
Entering the draw with a 30 percent chance—the second-best odds behind Nxled’s 40 percent—Capital1 defied expectations and was awarded with the top selection.
Romero, who owns the Solar Spikers alongside her sister Mandy, described the development as both surreal and meaningful.
“We had a 30 percent chance, but I didn’t want to assume,” Romero told reporters. “I always try to live in the moment and the rest is up to God. Expectations were there, but we were ready to accept whatever was given to us—and luckily, it was the first pick.”
[ALSO READ: Capital1 hits jackpot with no. 1 pick for 2025 PVL Draft]
Her surprise reaction to the top pick said it all.
“Clearly, sa reaction ko talaga, pang-pageant yung surprise ko,” she joked. “With lotteries like this, it’s really given to chance. But as management, we won’t take that chance for granted. It’s an opportunity to strengthen the team statistically and technically.”
Romero emphasized that the top pick is more than just about landing a star rookie, it’s also about shaping the team’s identity.
“We’re looking at our next moves not just for one player but for our whole franchise. How do we define ourselves in the professional league in the years to come? This is a good turning point for us.”
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She added that this draft builds upon the foundation already being laid by her and her sister. Last year, Capital1 drafted Leila Cruz, Roma Doromal, and Jenya Torres, serving as the building blocks under coach Roger Gorayeb.
“The last draft helped a lot. This one will build on what we already started. Mandy and I are very excited to bring in more players—sana, meron tayong magic six na mabubuo.”
With the PVL Draft Combine set for May 30–31 at Paco Arena, Romero said the team’s coaching staff and management will take the lead in talent evaluation.
“Our coaches will be there, our management will be there. As owners, we pave the way and set the direction, but it’s up to the experts to really hone in on how we want this team to be built.”
[ALSO READ: Roger Gorayeb yearns for solid middle blocker as Capital1 zeroes in on PVL Draft]
The final list of draft applicants will be revealed on June 4, leading up to the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft Ceremony on June 8.