The arrival of Lams Lamina at Galeries Tower adds another accomplished playmaker to the franchise’s growing roster, but it also creates an intriguing dynamic at the setter position.
Fresh off being selected first overall in the 2026 PVL Draft, Lamina joins a Highrisers squad that already features veteran setter Julia Coronel, setting up what both players believe will be a healthy competition as the team continues its pursuit of a breakthrough in the PVL.
“Siguro magandang ano ‘yun, healthy competition po sa aming mga ates ko,” said Lamina.
Setters See Opportunity, Not Rivalry
Rather than viewing the situation as a battle for minutes, both setters see it as an opportunity to elevate each other’s game and strengthen the team’s overall depth.
Coronel, who has shared national team duties with Lamina in previous Alas Pilipinas programs, welcomed the addition of the decorated National University playmaker.
“Obviously, I’m very excited to work again with Lams, knowing the kind of experience that she’s had in the collegiate level and also international level,” Coronel said.
“I’m also excited to learn from her, and I also hope she’s open to learning from the rest of us na ates niya sa team.”
Lamina Focused on Contribution as Rookie
For Lamina, the focus remains on contributing however she can while adjusting to life in the professional ranks. The three-time UAAP Best Setter believes her experience with National University can help Galeries Tower continue building toward becoming a competitive force in the league.
“And siyempre ako as a rookie, ipapakita ko lang talaga yung best ko, kung ano po ang ma-contribute ko talaga sa team,” Lamina said.
“And also kung ano po matutunan ko, ma-sha-share ko po sana sa mga ates ko.”
Coach Esteban Values Depth at Setter
The Highrisers’ decision to draft Lamina was also influenced by the need to strengthen their depth at setter, according to head coach Aying Esteban.
With a long season ahead, Esteban emphasized the importance of having multiple capable playmakers available, especially with a player of Lamina’s caliber on the board.
“Siyempre, hindi kami puwedeng mag-ano lang ng dalawang setter. Hindi mo alam kung ano puwedeng mangyari,” Esteban said.
“Pag nakita naman si Lams na talagang potential din siya, marami rin i-improve. Nakita namin yung qualities niya at mas magiging effective siya dito sa team namin.”
Competition as Catalyst for Growth
How playing time will eventually be divided remains undecided, with both Lamina and Coronel leaving that decision to the coaching staff.
For now, the pair is focused on pushing each other in training and helping Galeries Tower take the next step forward.
“I think siyempre, sila coach na rin talaga bahala kung ano ang plano nila for the team,” Coronel ended.
With two proven setters now orchestrating the offense, the Highrisers hope internal competition can become a catalyst for growth as they continue their climb in the PVL standings.
