Riza Nogales, ZUS’ third-round pick, shows upside

MANILA, Philippines — From almost going undrafted, ZUS Coffee rookie Riza Nogales proved her worth after emerging as one of the Best Middle Blockers in the PVL Invitational.

Nogales, who went from being a projected first-round pick to a third-rounder due to a partial ACL tear, was selected by ZUS Coffee as the 25th overall in the draft.

READ: PVL: Riza Nogales grateful to ZUS after draft fall due to injury

Savi Davison wins her first MVP leading the #PVLInvitational All-Premier team.#PVL2025

📸: @marlocueto @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/A9HAMIpowh

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) August 31, 2025

“Back during draft night, I almost didn’t even get drafted, so to be here now. I didn’t expect to receive an award like this. I’m really thankful to my teammates, to Coach Jerry (Yee), all the coaches, and of course, the management for trusting me and giving me this opportunity. I’m super thankful to the ZUS family,” she said.

The Thunderbelles’ gamble paid off as Nogales stepped up in the Invitational, where ZUS was fielded in as a replacement for the Kurashiki Ablaze.

And with first-round pick AC Miner missing most of the tournament and Rookie of the Year Thea Gagate has yet to return to action, the 6-foot middle blocker held the fort despite the winless campaign.

“At first, since I was dealing with an injury, the main focus was to recover quickly so I could help the team again. I’m really grateful to ZUS because they took great care of me so I could return earlier than expected. I’m just so happy and thankful,” said the former UE Lady Warrior. 

READ: PVL: Riza Nogales eyes fresh start after UE run

Nogales was third in blocking with 0.59 blocks per set. She was also seventh in service with 0.18 aces per set to share the stage with eight-time Best Middle Blocker Pangs Panaga of Creamline.

She joined ZUS Coffee young achievers, Sharya Ancheta, who was the Reinforced Rookie of the Conference last year, and Best Middle Blocker Gagate.

“This award means a lot to me. It’s a huge confidence booster, and it’s motivating me to keep working even harder. I’m hungrier now to improve, to train more, and to keep pushing in the next games,” said Nogales.