Capital1 Solar Spikers rookie Detdet Pepito received a memorable welcome in her Premier Volleyball League debut, drawing loud cheers from the crowd before even stepping onto the court in the 2026 PVL On Tour on Saturday at the CHAVIT Coliseum in Ilocos Sur.
The No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft admitted she was surprised by the overwhelming support during the pre-match player introductions, making her first professional appearance even more special.
“Actually, nagulat po ako na maraming sumigaw na tao kasi siyempre hindi ko naman po ini-expect na ma-rerecognize tayo bilang libero nang ganoon,” Pepito said.
“Nakakatuwa lang and I hope na ma-inspire pa yung future players po na hindi lang tayo basta libero—kaya nating mas mag-perform nang maayos bilang libero.”
Pepito on Losing End of PVL Debut
The Solar Spikers, however, bowed to Nxled in straight sets, 25-17, 25-23, 25-18, as Myla Pablo and Jonah Sabete-Escamillan powered the Chameleons to their first victory of the tournament.
Capital1 also played without national team standouts Bella Belen, Vanie Gandler, and Erika Santos, who remain on international duty.
Despite the loss, Pepito showed flashes of her defensive prowess in her PVL debut before leaving midway through the third set due to leg cramps.
“I think not bad naman po. Siyempre, bilang rookie, nandoon yung kaba and excitement, pero at least na-handle ko kahit papaano nang maayos,” she said.
“Pero yun nga, kailangan kong masolusyonan yung pagka-cramp ko every game. We’ll try to find a solution po.”
Pepito and Capital1 return to action on August 8 in Santiago, Isabela, where they will take on defending champion Creamline Cool Smashers.
