Looking back at the 2023 PBA Draft, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and déjà vu. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve seen drafts come and go—some memorable, some forgettable. But this year felt different, almost like the league was turning a page. The Valientes’ recent exhibition match against Crossfire Basketball USA—a team of former American collegiate players—at the Southern gym in Zamboanga City’s Barangay Divisoria only reinforced that feeling. Watching these young talents face off against seasoned international players gave me a glimpse of what the future might hold, and honestly, it’s electrifying.
Let’s talk winners first. In my view, the biggest winner wasn’t just one team, but the entire league’s scouting apparatus. Teams like Barangay Ginebra and TNT Tropang Giga made picks that felt almost prophetic. Ginebra snagged a 6’5” wing from Ateneo who averaged 18.3 points and 7.2 rebounds in the UAAP—stats that don’t lie. I remember thinking during the draft, “This kid’s going to thrive under Tim Cone’s system,” and his performance in that exhibition game against Crossfire USA only confirmed it. He dropped 22 points, showing off a versatility that’s rare for rookies. Meanwhile, TNT’s first-round pick, a point guard out of UP, dished out 11 assists in that same game. It’s not just about numbers, though; it’s about fit. These teams didn’t just draft for talent; they drafted for chemistry, and it’s paying off already.
But surprises? Oh, there were plenty. The biggest shocker for me was seeing a relatively unknown big man from a provincial squad get picked in the second round by the NLEX Road Warriors. I’ll admit, I had my doubts—his college stats were modest, maybe 9 points and 6 rebounds per game, and he wasn’t on many analysts’ radars. But in that exhibition match, he held his own against Crossfire’s taller American centers, grabbing 12 rebounds and blocking 3 shots. It reminded me of why I love the PBA Draft: sometimes, the underdogs shine brightest. Another surprise was how many teams prioritized defense over flashy offense. In past drafts, high-scoring guards always stole the spotlight, but this year, I noticed a shift toward two-way players. Maybe it’s the influence of international play, like what we saw in the Valientes-Crossfire game, where defensive hustle kept the score tight until the final minutes.
As for future stars, I’m putting my money on a couple of rookies who stood out in that exhibition. One is a 21-year-old shooting guard from San Beda who sank five three-pointers against Crossfire USA. His release is quick, his footwork smooth—it’s the kind of skill set that could make him an All-Star in two, maybe three years. Another is a versatile forward who, in my opinion, has the highest ceiling. He’s raw, sure, but his athleticism is off the charts. During the draft, I thought he might be a project, but after seeing him in Zamboanga, I’m convinced he’s the real deal. He’s the type of player who could average a double-double by his second season, and if he develops a consistent jumper, watch out.
Reflecting on all this, I can’t help but feel optimistic. The 2023 draft class isn’t just deep; it’s transformative. Teams that nailed their picks are already reaping the benefits, and the surprises have added a layer of unpredictability that keeps the league fresh. From my perspective, the Valientes-Crossfire exhibition was a microcosm of what’s to come—a blend of local grit and global influence that’s elevating Philippine basketball. Sure, not every pick will pan out, but this year, the hits far outweigh the misses. As we look ahead, I’m excited to see how these rookies evolve. If the draft taught me anything, it’s that the future of the PBA is in good hands—and honestly, I can’t wait to watch it unfold.