The NU Lady Bulldogs have retired Bella Belen’s jersey after she spent her entire UAAP career with the school.

Belen’s No. 4 was officially immortalized during NU’s pep rally on Thursday ahead of the upcoming UAAP Season 88.

The three-time UAAP MVP said she was overwhelmed by the gesture, becoming the first player from NU to have her number retired.

“I’m very happy. I’m overwhelmed and honored to be the first player from NU,” Belen said in a mixture of English and Filipino. “It’s very unexpected. I’m thankful that I was able to reach this point in my career.”

Bella Belen in her jersey retirement ceremony during the NU pep rally ahead of the UAAP Season 88. –UAAP PHOTO

Belen carved history with NU, winning three UAAP championships with the seniors team after collecting five titles during her high school days with Nazareth School. She also became the league’s first rookie-MVP in Season 84.

During the retirement ceremony, Belen also heard from her former NU coaches through a video tribute.

“I was surprised by the messages. They’re one of the reasons why I got to where I am right now. They really helped me to reach my goals as a player.”

Belen joins Manilla Santos of La Salle and Rachel Anne Daquis of FEU as UAAP volleyball players who have had their jersey numbers retired by their schools.

She now embarks on a new chapter in her career as the top overall pick of Capital1 Solar Spikers in the PVL.

“I’m very excited. It feels like I’m the only one who hasn’t played yet,” she said. “I’m very excited to show what Capital1 has been working for in the PVL.

Belen, who has also fortified Alas Pilipinas in recent months, will make her pro debut with the Solar Spikers in the PVL Reinforced Conference this October.