Reigning PVL All-Filipino champions Petro Gazz Angels are preparing to make the most of their no. 11 pick in a loaded 2025 Rookie Draft class.
Despite picking late in the first round, reigning PVL All-Filipino champions Petro Gazz Angels are taking a calculated and proactive approach to the upcoming 2025 PVL Rookie Draft.
With the 11th overall pick, assistant coach Cha Cruz-Behag emphasized the Angels’ focus on scouting versatile and coachable prospects who can seamlessly integrate into an already well-balanced lineup.
Petro Gazz already boasts a championship lineup which features the likes of reigning MVP Brooke Van Sickle, Finals MVP MJ Phillips, Jonah Sabete, Myla Pablo, and Chie Saet.
“We’re looking for a player with real potential, someone who’s very coachable and can truly bolster our team,” said Cruz-Behag during the PVL Draft Combine. “At this point, it's about finding the best fit, not just the biggest name.”
Although the team has yet to lock in a specific position to address, Cruz-Behag acknowledged that their draft strategy is largely shaped by their position on the board.
“As much as we’d love to target a specific position, we’re picking at No. 11, so our selection will also depend on who’s still available,” she explained. “That’s why we’re here—to familiarize ourselves, especially Coach Koji [Tsuzurabara], with the talent pool from the UAAP, NCAA, provinces, and even abroad.”
Last year, the Angels selected spiker AA Adolfo with the 10th overall pick, followed by setter Donnalyn Paralejas at 18th.
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With a much more loaded draft class this time around, Petro Gazz is closely monitoring how the first ten picks might unfold, mapping out possible scenarios and shortlisting players they believe could slip through the cracks.
“We’ve studied the likely top picks of other teams. With Coach Koji’s leadership, we’re aligned with his vision. We may have a complete lineup, but we’re still looking for someone who can blend in and deepen our bench.”
Cruz-Behag also didn’t rule out the possibility of selecting another Filipino-foreign player, particularly Fil-Am setter Tia Andaya, citing the potential value they could bring.
“If given the chance, of course, we’d love to bring in a Fil-foreign talent. They can contribute anywhere. But realistically, we need to wait our turn and see who’s left. Whether it’s Belen or another top-tier player, we’ll be ready to make the most of our pick.”
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For now, fans will have to wait and see on the selections when the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft rolls around on June 8, 7 p.m., at the Novotel Manila in Quezon City. It will be aired on One Sports, One Sports+, and the Pilipinas Live app.