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Who Were the Top Picks in the PBA Rookie Draft 2017 and Where Are They Now?
I still remember the excitement buzzing through the Philippine basketball community back in 2017 when the PBA rookie draft unfolded. That year felt particularly special because we weren't just watching athletes get selected - we were witnessing the beginning of several compelling career journeys. The top three picks that year became instant household names: Christian Standhardinger going first to San Miguel, followed by Kiefer Ravena to NLEX, and then Jason Perkins to Phoenix. What's fascinating isn't just where they started, but how their careers have evolved since then, and how their approaches to the game reveal something important about professional sports.
Standhardinger's journey particularly stands out to me. When he was drafted first overall, expectations were sky-high - and honestly, I had my doubts about whether he could handle that pressure. But watching his career unfold has been a masterclass in professional growth. He didn't just rely on his natural talent; he worked systematically on his game, eventually becoming a crucial piece for Ginebra and even winning the 2021 PBA Governors' Cup Finals MVP. What many fans don't see is the mental preparation behind these physical achievements. I've heard from people within the basketball community that Christian spends significant time studying game footage and working with sports psychologists - that dual focus on physical and mental sharpness reminds me of that insight about athletes needing to "prepare her body but also sharpen her mind."
Then there's Kiefer Ravena - my personal favorite from that draft class. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, averaging around 13-15 points per game and immediately establishing himself as one of the league's premier guards. But what impressed me most was how he handled the rough patches, including that FIBA suspension in 2018. Rather than crumbling under pressure, he used that time to work on both his physical conditioning and basketball IQ. I remember watching his return games and thinking how much more polished his decision-making had become. That ability to grow during challenging times separates good players from great ones.
Jason Perkins at number three might have been the steal of the draft. While he didn't have the same immediate spotlight as the top two picks, his consistent growth has been remarkable. From winning Rookie of the Year to becoming an essential part of Phoenix's core, Perkins represents that quiet professionalism I really admire in athletes. His game isn't always flashy, but it's fundamentally sound and mentally sharp - exactly what you get when a player invests in comprehensive preparation.
Looking back at that 2017 draft class now, what strikes me is how these players' careers validate that approach of balancing physical training with mental development. In today's game, pure athleticism just isn't enough anymore. The most successful players understand that the game is played as much between the ears as it is on the court. Standhardinger's evolution into a leadership role, Ravena's resilience through challenges, Perkins' steady improvement - they all demonstrate different aspects of that same principle. As a basketball fan, it's been incredibly satisfying to watch these players not just maintain their rookie promise, but actually exceed expectations through their dedication to holistic development.