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Who Were the Top Picks in the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft and Where Are They Now?
I still remember the buzz surrounding the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft like it was yesterday. As someone who's followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, that particular draft class felt special from the start - there was this electric energy in the air that suggested we were witnessing the arrival of future stars. The top three picks that year became immediate household names: Christian Standhardinger going first to San Miguel, Kiefer Ravena snatched up by NLEX as second pick, and Jason Perkins landing with Phoenix as third.
What fascinated me most about that draft class was how their careers would unfold in such different ways. Standhardinger, the Filipino-German powerhouse, immediately lived up to his number one status, putting up solid numbers of around 15 points and 8 rebounds per game in his rookie season. But his journey took an interesting turn when he was traded to NorthPort in 2021 - a move that actually revitalized his career. I've always believed that trade worked out beautifully for both parties, giving Christian the opportunity to become the undisputed leader of a young team.
Then there's Kiefer Ravena - oh, what could have been if not for his overseas commitments. The Phenom showed flashes of brilliance that made us all remember why he was such a coveted prospect, averaging about 13 points and 5 assists during his time with NLEX. But his decision to play in Japan created this fascinating stop-start pattern to his PBA career. Honestly, I think the league missed having his complete attention during those prime years.
Jason Perkins might have been the third pick, but in many ways, he's developed into the most consistent professional of that top trio. What's impressed me most about Perkins is his steady growth - from a reliable role player to becoming an essential part of Phoenix's core. His numbers don't always jump off the page, but his impact on winning basketball is undeniable.
Looking at where these players are now in 2024 reveals some interesting patterns. Standhardinger has evolved into this veteran leader who understands how to leverage his physical gifts with basketball IQ. Ravena's game has matured despite his split commitments, showing better decision-making and leadership qualities. Perkins has become the kind of two-way player every coach dreams of - reliable, consistent, and fundamentally sound.
What strikes me about all three is how they've managed the mental side of professional basketball. That reference about taking time to prepare both body and mind really resonates when I look at this draft class. The PBA grind is relentless - the travel, the pressure, the expectations - and these players have shown remarkable mental fortitude. I've noticed how Standhardinger has become more disciplined in his approach, how Ravena handles media scrutiny with remarkable poise, and how Perkins maintains his consistency despite fluctuating minutes and roles.
Seven years later, it's clear that physical talent only gets you so far in the PBA. The players who last, who truly make their mark, are those who work on their mental game with the same intensity they bring to physical training. This 2017 draft class, particularly these top three picks, demonstrates that beautiful intersection of physical preparation and mental sharpness that separates good players from great ones. They've navigated trades, role changes, and the immense pressure that comes with being high draft picks - and emerged as better players and professionals because of it.