The first round of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference showed major storylines — from ZUS Coffee’s unbeaten start and PLDT’s steady dominance, to Bella Belen’s impressive pro debut.
The opening round of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference offered a little bit of everything.
From stunning upsets, breakout performances, and teams finding their rhythm at different speeds, it's only expected to get better from here on out.
As the competition moves into the second round, here are six major takeaways that define how the conference is shaping up so far.
1. ZUS Coffee is legit
From winless conferences to an unbeaten 5-0 start, the Thunderbelles have become the breakout team in the PVL for this Reinforced Conference.
Behind import Anna DeBeer’s league-best 148 points, Cloanne Mondoñedo’s top-ranked setting, and a balanced system under coach Jerry Yee, ZUS Coffee has proven to be a legitimate title contender.
[ALSO READ: How ZUS Coffee transformed from PVL underdogs to legit title contenders]
Only time will tell if the Thunderbelles can continue their impressive run until the championship match.
2. Data indeed works for Alessandro Lodi, Farm Fresh
The Foxies continue to thrive under Italian coach Alessandro Lodi’s data-driven philosophy.
Their precise game preparation and emphasis on analytics have paid off, producing one of the most efficient attacking and serving teams in the league.
Import Helene Rousseaux and middle blocker Rizza Cruz both rank among the top five servers, while Alohi Robins-Hardy remains one of the most consistent playmakers of the tournament.
Lodi’s mantra — “We might lose, but no one can out-prepare us” — has clearly become the Foxies’ identity.
[ALSO READ: PVL: How high-spirited Alessandro Lodi became the right coach for Trisha Tubu, Farm Fresh]
3. Creamline is still constant even after an up-and-down start
Even after an up-and-down start, the Cool Smashers remain dangerous.
Their depth, experience, and chemistry continue to keep them in contention despite lineup rotations and a few early struggles.
With Alyssa Valdez and import Courtney Schwan leading the way, Creamline looks to prove that you can’t count out a team built on consistency and composure.
The 10-time PVL champions have yet to find their peak form, which makes them even scarier heading into the next round. The road to the title will still go through the defending champs.
[ALSO READ: Courtney Schwan unfazed by PVL import competition, focuses on consistency for Creamline]
4. The Bella Belen hype is real
Belen’s transition to the pros has been everything fans expected — and then some.
The three-time UAAP MVP adapted quickly to the PVL pace, becoming a reliable scorer and emotional spark for Capital1 Solar Spikers.
Belen’s leadership, maturity, and infectious energy have been key to Capital1’s growth, proving that the hype surrounding her UAAP success is well-earned.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Bella Belen underscores focus on defense for Capital1 Solar Spikers]
5. Petro Gazz, Cignal, and Choco Mucho need to find their groove — fast
For usual contenders like Petro Gazz, Cignal, and Choco Mucho, the first round was anything but smooth. Each team has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to find consistency.
The Angels are still adjusting to their new coach and system; the Super Spikers have struggled to close out tight matches; and the Flying Titans continue to search for rhythm with import Marlee Smith.
All three have the firepower to bounce back, but with the second round featuring tougher matchups, time is running out to rediscover their winning form.
6. PLDT remains the team to beat
Even with a 4-1 record, the High Speed Hitters have reinforced their reputation as the most complete team in the league.
Savi Davison continues to dominate at the net, now even leading the league in blocks, while Kath Arado anchors the floor defense as the second-ranked digger.
Adding to that is the awaited return of Mika Reyes, who will only add even more firepower alongside import Anastasiia Bavykina, and locals Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, and Dell Palomata.
Coach Rald Ricafort’s system remains built on discipline, teamwork, and balance, which has been a proven recipe that wins championships.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Rald Ricafort calls PLDT's first loss a ‘wake-up call’ after 15-game streak ends]
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.