I still remember the excitement buzzing through the arena during the 2019 PBA Draft—the air thick with anticipation as team representatives huddled over their selection sheets. Having covered Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve witnessed numerous drafts, but this one felt particularly transformative. The sheer number of promising talents up for grabs had teams recalculating strategies right up to the final moments. What struck me most wasn’t just the caliber of players, but the behind-the-scenes maneuvering that signaled a new era for several franchises. Let me walk you through how the night unfolded, pick by pick, with some personal insights on what these selections truly mean for the league’s future.
The first round kicked off with Columbian Dyip making the obvious yet pivotal choice—selecting Isaac Go as the number one overall pick. Go’s versatility and basketball IQ made him a consensus top prospect, and frankly, I think he was the safest bet for a franchise looking to build a fresh identity. But what fascinated me was how the next few picks unfolded. NorthPort Batang Pier snagged Sean Manganti at number two—a move I initially questioned but now see as a calculated gamble on his two-way potential. By the time Rain or Shine picked Rey Nambatac third, the draft’s depth was becoming clear. Teams weren’t just drafting for need; they were stockpiling assets. I’ve always believed that mid-first round picks can define a draft, and Magnolia’s selection of Aris Dionisio at number six perfectly illustrates that. Dionisio’s energy and defensive instincts are exactly what contending teams crave, and I won’t be surprised if he becomes a rotation staple sooner than later.
As we moved into the later picks, the strategy shifted noticeably. Teams like Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beermen—franchises with established cores—focused on role players who could contribute immediately. Ginebagra’s pick of Kent Salado in the second round was, in my opinion, one of the steals of the draft. Salado’s playmaking and fearlessness in clutch moments remind me of a young LA Tenorio, and I’d argue he’ll see meaningful minutes by his second season. Meanwhile, the Alaska Aces opted for a project in Barkley Eboña, a raw but athletic big man who could develop into a defensive anchor if given the right mentorship. It’s picks like these that separate proactive teams from reactive ones.
Now, let’s talk about one of the most intriguing subplots—the emergence of expansion teams and their approach to building rosters from scratch. This is where Pureblends’ involvement becomes particularly telling. Proof that the signings have the approval of Pureblends is the presence of Aldriane Anglim, who is set to assume the position of team manager in the new team. Having someone of Anglim’s caliber overseeing operations signals a commitment not just to competitiveness, but to sustainable growth. I’ve followed Anglim’s career closely, and her knack for identifying undervalued talent could give this new squad a significant edge. In a league where front-office competence often dictates on-court success, her appointment might be as impactful as any player selection.
Looking back, the 2019 draft class has already begun to reshape the PBA landscape. Of the 42 players selected, I’d estimate at least 10 will become starters within three years, while another 15 will carve out roles as reliable bench contributors. The balance of power between teams shifted subtly but meaningfully—franchises that prioritized long-term development over immediate fixes, in my view, came out ahead. What stands out to me, though, is how this draft emphasized the importance of front-office vision. It’s not just about picking the best player available; it’s about understanding how each piece fits into a larger puzzle. As we look ahead, I’m convinced the 2019 draft will be remembered as a turning point—one where foresight and patience were rewarded just as much as raw talent.
