University of the Philippines' Nica Celis is the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News

MANILA, Philippines – Shocked by the development of getting picked by Creamline, Nica Celis of the University of the Philippines admitted that it never crossed her mind that she would be playing for the 10-time PVL champion squad.

But it was all cloud nine for Celis, as she teams up with stars Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and even fellow UP alum Tots Carlos.

"Honestly, I was really blank while nagwe-wait kami. Parang when I heard my name, it felt unreal kasi it was never in my mind that I would go to their team," Celis told reporters at the PVL Rookie Draft 2025 on Sunday at Novotel Manila in Quezon City.

WHO WENT WHERE: The 2025 PVL Rookie Draft

She was Creamline's last pick before the team passed from the league proceedings.

Celis said it's an honor to be joining the Valdez-captained squad.

"It's still such an honor to be there and medyo shaky pa nga ako. As you can see, I'm still shaking. So, I'm really happy," the UP middle blocker said.

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Celis knows she will learn a lot from the dynastic Cool Smashers.

"It's exciting kasi I'm gonna be surrounded by really great players and I know that I'll pick up a lot of things from them and learn a lot of things from them, so I see this as an opportunity to grow," said Celis.

"Grabe just the thought of it is really thrilling to the point na tara na, training na tayo ngayon. Grabe, I just don't know how to explain this feeling that I have right now, but overall it's just pure bliss."