While yet to be officially drafted, Thea Gagate is already eager to steer the rebranded ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in the right direction come the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
Undoubtedly, Thea Gagate's exceptional skills and achievements have earned her the esteemed title being the consensus no. 1 pick in the monumental 2024 PVL Draft.
Even ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles coach Jerry Yee admitted that they are ready to select the 6-foot-1 middle blocker come Draft day, making Gagate's status as the first-ever PVL top pick only awaiting formalities.
Gagate’s addition to the rebranded ZUS Coffee, formerly known as the Strong Group Athletics, is anticipated to significantly bolster the team's performance and rankings after their 0-11 record in the All-Filipino Conference.
"Of course, I’m very honored na ako ‘yung first choice nila, and I’m grateful for it, sobra. I just hope na I will go there soon," Gagate expressed with enthusiasm during the Draft Combine Tuesday.
[ALSO READ: Thea Gagate, Julia Coronel headline aspirants for inaugural 2024 PVL rookie draft]
Joining ZUS Coffee comes with its share of challenges and expectations, but Gagate is ready to rise to the occasion.
The 3-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker is eager to showcase her abilities and contribute to her new team.
"For my part, I’ll just really do my best na matulungan ‘yung team na umangat ‘yung ranking nila sa PVL. There’s always gonna be pressure but I’ll put that aside and just focus on working hard on myself, and I’ll be good,” said Gagate.
Amid her ongoing stint with Alas Pilipinas, the 23-year-old Gagate is also excited to show off her learnings from the national team to help ZUS Coffee come the Reinforced Conference.
"It’s gonna be challenging talaga kasi pero very exciting din kasi coming into the national team, I also wish to bring new learnings to my new team sa PVL para matulungan kong umangat ‘yung ranking nila,” said Gagate.
The 2024 PVL Draft is set for July 8 at Novotel in Cubao, Quezon City.