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Looking Back at the PBA Rookie Draft 2017: Where Are They Now?
I still remember the excitement surrounding the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft like it was yesterday. The buzz at the venue was electric, with teams and fans alike buzzing about which prospects would become the league's next superstars. Seven years later, it's fascinating to see how these players have navigated their professional journeys, and how their careers have unfolded in ways both predictable and surprising.
Looking at the top picks from that draft class, Christian Standhardinger immediately comes to mind. Selected first overall by the San Miguel Beermen, he's developed into one of the most consistent big men in the league. His numbers speak for themselves - averaging around 18 points and 10 rebounds per game throughout his PBA career. What many don't see is the mental transformation he underwent after his initial struggles adapting to the Philippine basketball style. I've spoken with several players from that draft class, and they often mention how the transition from amateur to professional basketball requires more than just physical preparation. The mental aspect is equally crucial, something Standhardinger clearly mastered.
Then there's Kiefer Ravena, the second overall pick who brought tremendous hype with him. His career path has been particularly interesting to follow. After showing flashes of brilliance in his first three seasons, he made the surprising jump to Japan's B.League. I've always admired players who take unconventional paths, even if it means facing criticism from traditionalists. Ravena's decision reflects a growing trend among Filipino players seeking opportunities abroad, and honestly, I think it's fantastic for their development. His journey reminds me of that crucial insight about preparing both body and mind - the overseas experience undoubtedly sharpens both aspects.
The draft's third pick, Jason Perkins, has quietly become one of the league's most reliable forwards. What impresses me most about Perkins is his consistency and work ethic. While he may not grab headlines as often as some of his draft classmates, he's been instrumental in Phoenix's campaigns. I recall watching him during his rookie season and thinking he had the potential to become a cornerstone player, and he's certainly lived up to that. His development trajectory shows that sometimes steady growth beats flashy beginnings.
Several other picks from that class have taken fascinating paths. Some have become solid rotation players, others have bounced between teams, and a few have unfortunately faded from the professional scene entirely. The reality is, only about 60% of that draft class remains active in the PBA today, which really puts the challenge of professional basketball into perspective. What separates those who stick from those who don't often comes down to that mental fortitude we mentioned earlier. The physical tools get you drafted, but the mental preparation determines your longevity.
Reflecting on the entire 2017 draft class, what strikes me is how their career trajectories have been shaped by both opportunity and personal development. The most successful players aren't necessarily the most physically gifted, but those who understood the importance of holistic preparation. They recognized early that professional basketball demands more than just athleticism - it requires emotional resilience, basketball IQ, and the mental toughness to overcome slumps and criticism. As I look at today's PBA landscape, the legacy of the 2017 draft continues to influence how teams evaluate prospects, placing greater emphasis on mental readiness alongside physical metrics. These players' journeys serve as valuable case studies for aspiring athletes about what it truly takes to build a sustainable career in professional basketball.