Lin Chien Selected First Overall by Taoyuan Leopards in Inaugural TPVL Draft

(CNA Reporter Chen Jung-chen, Taipei, 12th) Lin Chien, who has dominated as the best setter in the University Volleyball League (UVL) for five consecutive years, was selected by the Taoyuan Leopards with the first overall pick in the inaugural Taiwan Professional Volleyball League (TPVL) rookie draft today. He looks forward to joining forces with legendary Italian import Osmany Juantorena.

The Taiwan Professional Volleyball League (TPVL) held its first-ever rookie draft today. The Taoyuan Leopards, holding the first overall pick, selected setter Lin Chien from Chung Yuan Christian University, making him the first "number one pick" in league history. Following this, Taipei East selected attacker Wen I-kai from National Taiwan Normal University, TSG Hawks chose attacker Liu Yu-lin from Chung Yuan Christian University, and Taichung Lien Chuang acquired National Taiwan Normal University captain Chang Yu-chen.

In a joint media interview, Lin Chien expressed his joy and anticipation for playing professional volleyball. He noted that participating in the draft stage for the first time symbolizes a new step forward for Taiwan's volleyball scene. However, he believes the "first overall pick" is just a title. Having an appreciation for various types of setters, he plans to treat himself as a blank slate upon entering the professional league, gradually painting the picture of the player he wants to become. "The overall intensity of the professional league will be higher than the enterprise league, and the audience will be more engaged in the games," he said.

The Taoyuan Leopards recently announced the signing of former Italian national team attacker Osmany Juantorena, a Rio Olympics silver medalist, sparking heated discussions. Lin Chien smiled and said he is looking forward to cooperating with this "big-name teammate." He acknowledged it as a brand-new challenge, given that Juantorena's ball speed and hitting points might be different, requiring adjustments to the rhythm of every set. "I'm excited to see what kind of spark we can create," he added.

Wen I-kai, who was favored by Taipei East, pointed out that he is someone who loves challenges. Facing more import players on the professional stage, he hopes to prove himself with his skills and help his team achieve a better ranking. He also encouraged his NTNU teammate Chang Yu-chen, saying, "Brothers united in heart, working hard individually," while aiming to seize every practice opportunity to gradually climb up to a starting position. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150612