The Galeries Tower Highrisers will have plenty of middle blockers to choose from in the upcoming 2025 PVL Rookie Draft.
With the no. 1 pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft practically locked in, the focus now shifts to the Galeries Tower Highrisers.
Selecting second in a loaded draft class, the Highrisers can go several directions with their pick.
But as early as now, head coach Lerma Giron has made it clear on what the team’s priority for the Rookie Draft will be.
“Hindi libero kukunin ko muna. Hindi libero. Kasi nagawan na namin ng paraan 'yon,” Giron told reporters. “Priority namin ngayon, kasi may injured na middle player, eh major role 'yon, so priority namin ngayon.”
Giron will have plenty of middle blockers to choose from, such as AC Miner, Jean Asis, Sheena Toring, Pia Abbu, and several others.
But while the Capital1 Solar Spikers are widely expected to select three-time UAAP MVP Bella Belen with the top pick, the Highrisers are preparing for multiple scenarios—Belen included.
“Kung hindi siya [Belen] kunin ng Capital1, aba'y kukunin namin,” Giron admitted with a laugh. “Pero kung siya ang mapunta sa no. 1, we’re ready to get the best available middle blocker.”
Giron added that her coaching staff has already ranked prospects based on the official draft list, and that the Draft Combine allowed them to widen their scope beyond UAAP standouts.
“Familiar kami sa UAAP names, pero may nakita rin kaming magagaling from the NCAA,” she said. “We’re looking for a middle na kayang mag-contribute on both ends—blocking and quick attacks.”
Depending on management’s final decision, Galeries Tower is eyeing two to three selections in the June 8 draft at Novotel Manila. The Highrisers picked Julia Coronel last year as their top pick from the no. 3 spot.