Bella Belen's all-around performances have been nothing short of spectacular for the NU Lady Bulldogs in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament.
As National University grabbed its eighth win UAAP Season 86 after dominating the University of the East, Bella Belen once again showcased her all-around brilliance as she finished with 13 points, to go along with 10 excellent digs, and 10 excellent receptions.
The Season 84 Rookie-MVP has been nothing short of spectacular for the Lady Bulldogs, who are out to reclaim their UAAP crown.
In NU's 10 games so far in the season, Belen finished with a triple-double in attacks, receives, and digs in five matches, highlighting her valuable presence for the Lady Bulldogs.
For Belen, her all-around performance comes as no surprise as she made sure to focus on her defense heading into Season 86.
"'Yung napansin ko kasi 'yung trend ko as a player, nung first year, hindi ako masyadong more on receives kasi meron akong si ate Jen [Nierva]," Belen told One Sports. "Ngayon, sabi ko kailangan kong mag-step up hindi lang sa attacks, kailangan sa receive din and sa digs."
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter, in fact, makes it a point to lessen the burden for her teammates.
"Lagi ko lang [iniisip] sa mind ko na kailangan may ibigay ako sa team na hindi lang sa scoring skills kasi feeling ko personally, pag nakikita nila na naka-support ako sa kanila, mas nagiging energetic sila maglaro and parang nawawala 'yung pressure sa kanila," said Belen.
As NU looks to secure its spot in the Final Four, Belen is liking how the team is progressing throughout the tournament with the Lady Bulldogs looking the champion team they were just two seasons ago.
"Nakikita ko na palapit na palapit na talagang 'yung NU na kilala ko, talagang lumalabas na gustong manalo, kaya gawin lahat para mabigay sa team 'yung panalo," said Belen.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Norman Miguel, Bella Belen wary of NU Lady Bulldogs peaking too early in Season 86]
Up next for Belen and the rest of the Lady Bulldogs will be the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Wednesday, April 10 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay at 4:00 p.m.