Akari Chargers’ draft pick Steph Bustrillo during the 2024 PVL Rookie Draft. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Steph Bustrillo is leaning on the determination she had developed at University of the Philippines as she makes her pro debut with Akari in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference, which fires off on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.
The UP Fighting Maroon became the newest Charger after getting drafted as sixth overall in the inaugural PVL Rookie Draft on Monday at Novotel.
More than her scoring prowess, Bustrillo also vows to bring her character to Akari in the import-laden tournament.
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“I will bring my skills, determinations, and learnings from UP not only inside the court but outside volleyball,” said Bustrillo in Filipino.
Akari is parading a new look with Ivy Lacsina and Kamille Cal, as well as returnees Dani Ravena and Cams Victoria. They will be led by Japanese coach Taka Minowa after switching with their sister team Nxled Chameleons.
However, the Chargers will miss Faith Nisperos and Fifi Sharma in the midseason tournament due to their Alas Pilipinas stint.
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But Bustrillo, the lone rookie of the team, is out to fill the void for Akari, which also has team captain Michelle Cobb and import Oly Okaru as well as last conference’s recruits Ced Domingo and Grethcel Soltones.
“I’m happy that Akari drafted me. This conference and our upcoming games, I will help the team. And I know that they will enhance my skills,” she said.
Bustrillo, UP’s go-to scorer in Season 86, is elated to team up with her former UAAP rivals Nisperos, Lacsina, Cal, Ravena, Victoria, and Max Juangco.
“I’m excited because before I used to play against them and watch them but now, I will be with them on the same side of the court,” she said.
Akari opens its campaign against Capital 1 on Thursday next week in Pool B, which has defending champion Petro Gazz, Choco Mucho, Cignal, and ZUS Coffee.