PVL: Riza Nogales grateful to ZUS after draft fall due to injury
Riza Nogales joins ZUS Coffee after the UE star slid to the third round of the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
HIGHLIGHTS: 2025 PVL Rookie Draft
MANILA, Philippines — After two rounds, the volleyball community was wondering why Riza Nogales’ name had’t been called in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft on Sunday night at Novotel.
The wait finally came to an end when PVL Control Committee Chairman Sherwin Malonzo called her name as ZUS Coffee’s third-round pick.
READ: PVL: Riza Nogales eyes fresh start after UE run
Riza Nogales on being ZUS Coffee’s third-round pick. #PVLDraft2025 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/p7Wx0ZKElo
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) June 9, 2025
Nogales, one of the top middle blockers in the draft class, took the risk in turning pro, revealing she’s been playing through a partial ACL tear on her right knee since her final playing year for the University of the East in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament where they ended up winless in 14 games.
“I had a partial ACL tear in my right knee. That was even before the UAAP season started. I actually played the whole season with the injury, but thankfully it didn’t get worse. I was able to finish the season healthy,” said Nogales in Filipino shortly after getting drafted.
Nogales, who missed the second day of the combine, knew that her injury would affect her stock in the draft and she’s grateful to ZUS Coffee for giving her a chance.
“I’m really happy and thankful and also excited even if I was picked in the third round,” said Nogales. “I understand why, since I’m dealing with an injury. But I’m looking forward to learning from the veterans and growing more with the team.”
READ: No surprise as Bella Belen picked first in PVL Draft 2025
ZUS Coffee, which drafted first overall pick and Rookie of the Year Thea Gagate last season, added more height with the 6-foot Nogales joining fifth selection AC Miner as the squad hopes to continue its rise after a breakthrough playoff appearance in the All-Filipino Conference.
Despite her injury, Nogales said she’s ready to play and prove her worth to repay the trust of coach Jerry Yee, who once handled the UE program two years ago.
“I was able to finish the UAAP season in good condition, and I’ve been cleared to play. I’m really hoping to join the upcoming PVL games and play alongside the team,” Nogales said. “It means a lot. I really look up to Coach Jerry—he’s Coach Jerry, after all. I’m excited to improve more under his system and learn from my older teammates.”
