National University and De La Salle University’s second-round matchup in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament turned out to be an all-out “swagfest.”
It seemed like every point sparked animated celebrations, much to the delight of the packed SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday night.
For Bella Belen, swag isn’t about taunting the opponent; it’s an athlete’s way of expressing their enjoyment of the game they’re so passionate about.
The Lady Bulldogs emerged victorious after a two-hour battle against the Lady Spikers, winning 25-19, 22-25, 25-20, 25-18. Belen contributed 23 points, 17 receptions, and seven digs.
“Ako kasi personally, ano kasi ako maglaro eh. Parang bakla, bakla. Mala-Josh. Josh Ybañez,” said the two-time MVP.
“Ako kasi, pag nilabas ko yung ako maglaro, dun ko nakikita na para nagaganahan yung team kasi sa training ganito ako eh. Bale parang nag-aantsahan kami. So, parang normal lang naman sa amin kasi parang, dun namin nae-express yung paano namin ma-enjoy yung laro.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Despite her fun-loving attitude, the Psychology student emphasized the importance of not letting emotions take over when receiving a swag from an opponent.
For her, it’s all about making the sport more enjoyable, especially during a four-month journey to the Final Four.
“Ako kasi, feeling ko pag inisip ko na kailangan ko bumawi ng swag, mawawala ako sa laro. Kasi ano pinunta mo dito? Mag-swag ka lang? Hindi para maglaro? Ako naman wala, ah okay, nagswag sila samin. Cute,” shared the graduating Belen.
“Okay lang kasi part naman yun ng game. Wala naman mali doon kasi ganon sila mag-celebrate. So kami, kung paano kami mag-celebrate, gawin lang din namin. Hindi naman nasa utak namin na every game kailangan mag-swag, ganyan, hindi. Kailangan lang namin ilabas kung paano kami maglaro.”
NU has seemed to enjoy every moment of the season so far, with an unbeaten eight-game streak to open the tournament.
#WATCH: Bella Belen on why volleyball players need a little swag on the court—”Mala-Josh Ybanez!” 🏐
📹 @justinvalencia_ /Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason87 pic.twitter.com/YgkluK2n8V
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) March 23, 2025
