Young winger Angela Jackson made a bold move when she declared for the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Draft despite limited competitive experience.

Holding on to an unmovable faith in her ability and sheer determination, the 20-year-old opposite hitter’s gambit paid off when her name was called in the late round of the formal proceedings held Sunday at the Novotel Manila.

Jackson, who played for University of the Philippines Integrated School in the juniors division of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), was selected by ZUS Coffee in the fourth round as the 28th overall pick.

“Very much relieved. I would say what I did was a bold move. I’m relieved that I was chosen,” the 5-foot-9 Jackson said.

A high risk, high reward gamble worth taking.

“I would say it’s a calculated risk. If you think you can, then why not?” added the youngest rookie aspirant in the deep batch of hopefuls.

The wide-bodied hitter was actually the second to the last name among the 57 aspirants chosen by a pro club. Reyann Canete of San Beda University was the final draftee picked by Chery Tiggo at 29th.

“I was very anxious. But I kept hoping, even though it was nerve-wracking, with teams already passing. But I’m glad that I got picked,” she said.

Jackson briefly joined University of Santo Tomas after high school but didn’t get a chance to showcase her talent.

Given a bigger opportunity, Jackson vowed to make a name for herself in the pros.

“I’m one of those who have little exposure but I’m so glad that I took the step and very much thankful the opportunity,” Jackson said.

“Of course, this is a big jump. I would say I have a lot of work to put in.”

Head coach Jerry Yee said the Thunderbelles management put its bet on selecting Jackson as a gem in the rough.

“Boss (team owner Frank Lao) wants to see the kid grow and develop once she gets trained,” Yee said.