Looking back at the 2017 PBA Draft, I can’t help but feel it was one of those turning points for the league—a mix of raw talent, emotional narratives, and strategic picks that shaped team dynamics for years. I remember watching the proceedings unfold, thinking how certain selections weren’t just about skills or stats, but about something deeper. That’s what struck me when I came across a quote from one of the players later on: “It’s because love talaga namin, di lang yung ginagawa namin, pero yung bawat isa talaga. Yun talaga yung nagki-keep sa’min together, na hindi kami bibitaw.” It translates to a sentiment of genuine love and unity—not just for the game, but for each other. And honestly, that spirit seemed to echo throughout the draft, influencing team choices in subtle but powerful ways.
The draft itself took place on October 29, 2017, at Robinsons Place Manila, with 49 players selected across multiple rounds. I recall the palpable excitement in the room as teams jockeyed for position, each hoping to land the next franchise player. The first round saw some predictable yet impactful picks: Christian Standhardinger went first overall to the San Miguel Beermen, a move that felt almost inevitable given his dominant performances internationally. At 6’8”, he brought not just height but a fierce competitiveness that fit the Beermen’s culture perfectly. Right after, the Columbian Dyip (now Terrafirma Dyip) snagged Kiefer Ravena at number two—a guard whose court vision and leadership I’d admired since his college days. But what stood out to me wasn’t just the talent; it was how teams like Barangay Ginebra, picking sixth, went for Jeron Teng, a player known for his grit and team-first attitude. It’s that kind of pick that reminds me of the quote I mentioned earlier—where love for the team and camaraderie outweigh pure individual stats.
As the draft progressed into the second and third rounds, the strategy shifted from star power to building depth and chemistry. Teams like the Alaska Aces, for instance, picked up Davon Potts at 14th, a move that paid off in their defensive schemes later on. I’ve always believed that mid-round picks can make or break a team’s season, and here, the focus seemed to be on players who could gel quickly with existing rosters. Take the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters—they selected Rey Nambatac at 7th, a guard whose energy and unselfish play embodied that “love for each other” mindset. Watching him integrate into the team, it was clear that his value went beyond points per game; he was a glue guy, someone who kept the unit tight during tough stretches. From my perspective, that’s where the real magic happens in drafts—when teams prioritize intangibles like loyalty and unity, even if it means passing on flashier options.
Reflecting on the team breakdowns, San Miguel’s selection of Standhardinger was a masterstroke in balancing immediate impact with long-term vision. They already had a stacked lineup, but adding a big man who could run the floor and defend multiple positions gave them flexibility in tight games. On the other hand, Columbian’s pick of Ravena felt like a rebuilding move—aimed at injecting youth and leadership into a struggling franchise. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first, thinking they might have gone for a big man to shore up their frontcourt, but Ravena’s ability to elevate his teammates proved me wrong. Then there’s Ginebra’s choice of Teng; as a fan of their never-say-die attitude, I loved how it reinforced their identity. Teng’s physical style and willingness to do the dirty work mirrored the team’s ethos, and it’s no surprise they’ve had playoff success since.
But let’s talk numbers for a moment—because, in my experience, data tells part of the story, but not all of it. For example, Standhardinger averaged around 22 points and 12 rebounds in his pre-draft showcases, while Ravena put up 18 points and 6 assists. Those stats are impressive, sure, but they don’t capture the locker room dynamics. I remember chatting with a scout who told me that Ravena’s leadership in practices alone boosted team morale by what he estimated was 30%—a rough figure, but it highlights the intangible benefits. Similarly, teams like the Blackwater Elite (now Bossing) picked up Raymar Jose at 9th, a forward whose rebounding numbers (say, 10 per game) might not jump off the page, but whose hustle plays often sparked comebacks. It’s those little things that align with the idea of “hindi kami bibitaw”—not giving up, no matter the score.
Wrapping it up, the 2017 PBA Draft wasn’t just a list of names; it was a tapestry of strategic bets and heartfelt connections. As I look back, I’m convinced that the most successful picks were those rooted in that sense of love and unity the player quote encapsulates. Teams that balanced talent with team chemistry—like Ginebra with Teng or Rain or Shine with Nambatac—ended up building resilient squads that could weather the PBA’s grueling seasons. From my seat, it’s a lesson for future drafts: don’t just draft for skill; draft for soul. Because in the end, it’s the bonds between players that turn a group of individuals into a team that never lets go.