Rising star AC Miner is motivated to bring more to the table for ZUS Coffee following a stellar performance in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference that did not go unnoticed.

Consistent and always ready to step up, the fifth overall pick has earned a permanent spot in Thunderbelles’ head coach Jerry Yee’s rotation.

Her contributions played a vital role in ZUS Coffee’s breakthrough championship appearance in the import-laden conference.

Although the Thunderbelles eventually yielded in four sets against seasoned Petro Gazz, the Ateneo de Manila University product proved to be a perfect choice for the Frank Lao-owned franchise in this year’s Draft first round.

Miner was named Rookie of the Conference at the conclusion of the year-ending tournament, besting a deep class of freshmen led by heralded top overall pick Bella Belen of Capital1.

“Of course, this is a very big confidence booster for me because I never expected to receive this award,” said the middle blocker, who along with last year’s inaugural Draft No. 1 pick Thea Gagate, forms a formidable frontline for the young team.

“Hopefully, I’ll be able to sustain what I started. But I know this is just the start. I have to live up to the expectations of winning this award.”

Miner finished her first Reinforced Conference campaign with 16 points, including a game-high six kill blocks.

Yee praised Miner for showing maturity beyond her years.

“She’s a very important niche in our rotation. She’s a huge factor for us in breaking our opponents’ blocks. She plays a big role in our offense and most especially in defense,” Yee said.

Miner cherishes the experience of reaching the finals, and she’s more excited to showcase more of her talents in the All-Filipino Conference next month.

“It’s very fulfilling that we have reached this far in my first year. Grateful to my teammates and to ZUS for giving me the playing time,” she said.

“So, I think the future looks bright for our team. And we’re just getting started.”