Bella Belen powered through her ailing back to help the NU Lady Bulldogs conquer the DLSU Lady Spikers in four sets in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament on Sunday, April 14.
After her rare subpar performance against Ateneo de Manila University, Bella Belen was her usual self once more in helping National University overcome De La Salle University in four sets, 22-25, 25-23, 25-16, 25-22, in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament on Sunday, April 14.
Belen, who finished with 14 points to go along with 14 excellent receptions, admitted dealing with back pain during their match against the Blue Eagles.
And even against the Lady Spikers, Belen was still not at 100 percent, but that was no hindrance for the Season 84 Rookie-MVP in giving it her all for the team.
"Before kasi sa training meron pa din pero as a psychology student, it's all in the mind," Belen laughingly said during the post-game press conference.
"Kaya pag tinatanong ako kanina ng coach kung masakit ba 'yung likod ko, sabi ko lagi hindi kasi parang feeling ko na the more na iniisip ko na masakit likod, the more na magiging hindrance siya sa paglalaro ko," she added.
[ALSO READ: NU takes over first place as the Lady Bulldogs pounce on DLSU still without Angel Canino]
Belen likewise attributed her boost in energy to the support she got from her teammates as they ended their five-game losing skid against La Salle.
"Siguro dahil din sa adrenaline and na-feel ko 'yung support ng bawa't isa sa amin kung meron man sakit o wala talagang binigay 'yung best," said Belen. "Nakita ko nag-perform ng maayos kanina na talagang 100 percent yung katawan namin, parang ganun 'yung nangyari kanina."
[ALSO READ: Angel or no Angel? NU chooses to focus on what it can control ahead of crucial UAAP rematch vs. La Salle]
Now sitting with a 10-2 record, Belen and the rest of the Lady Bulldogs will look to sweep their remaining games to secure the top spot in the Final Four and the twice-to-beat advantage that comes with it.
Up next for NU will be Adamson University on Saturday, April 20 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig at 4:00 p.m.