Capital1 Spikers Ivy Aquino during the PVL Rookie Draft 2025. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Ivy Aquino, Capital1’s third-round pick, is set to reunite with a player she used to play pick-up games with in high school—Bella Belen, the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft’s first overall selection.

Selected 24th overall, the middle blocker from the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) realized her pro dream despite not coming from a UAAP or NCAA school.

Aquino is also teaming up with her childhood playmate, Belen, now a three-time UAAP MVP out of National University and a star with Alas Pilipinas.

“I’m super excited. Back in high school, I used to play with Bella, and I’ve always known how gifted and talented she is. I’m really looking forward to being on the court with her again, this time as pros. I know I still have a lot to learn, especially since I didn’t come from NCAA or UAAP,” said Aquino in Filipino.

“I hope she remembers me. She even used to come to our house after our games. She was always fun to be with, and she brings such a light and uplifting presence on the court. I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with her.”

The 25-year-old rookie was emotional after making it to the PVL despite being an unheralded player.

“I still can’t believe I made it. The journey has been so long, and yet I still ended up here. I just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who believed in me and never gave up on me,” she said.

Aquino vows not to waste this chance, hoping to inspire other athletes from outside the country’s top leagues that they, too, can make a name in the pros.

“At first, it was really difficult because we needed a completely different mindset. We weren’t from UAAP or NCAA, we weren’t from well-known teams, and even the teams we faced weren’t that strong. But if you really want something, you’ll find a way to reach it. You just have to keep pushing yourself and draw inspiration from your family and those who believe in you,” she said.

Capital1 drafted three players: Belen, second-round pick Pia Abbu, and Aquino. Coach Jorge Souza de Brito will usher in a new era for the team following his national team stint.