Looking back at the 2022 PBA Draft, I still get that familiar thrill thinking about how much talent entered the league that year. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve seen drafts come and go, but this one felt different—not just because of the promising names on the list, but because of the underlying stories of grit, controversy, and potential that surrounded these young athletes. I remember sitting through the virtual proceedings, taking notes, and feeling genuinely excited about how these rookies could reshape the PBA landscape. And honestly, some of them have already started making waves, for better or worse.
Let’s dive right into the draft list and player rankings, because that’s what most fans are itching to know. The first round was stacked, no question. At the top, you had Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser going to Blackwater as the number one pick—a move that, in my opinion, was both predictable and smart. Standing at 6’7” with versatility on both ends, he brought something fresh to the Bossing’s frontcourt. Right after him, Converge snagged Jeo Ambohot, and I’ve got to say, I loved that pick. Ambohot’s energy and defensive instincts reminded me of some of the league’s classic big men, but with a modern twist. Then there was Jeremiah Gray going to Terrafirma—a player I’ve kept an eye on since his stint in the MPBL. His athleticism is off the charts, and if he stays healthy, he could be a cornerstone for the Dyip. The first round wrapped up with names like Tyler Tio, Gian Mamuyac, and Shaun Ildefonso, each bringing unique strengths. Tio, in particular, stood out to me because of his poise under pressure; I’ve seen him hit clutch shots in the UAAP, and that kind of nerve translates well to the pros.
But it’s not just about the draft order—it’s about how these players fit into the league’s narrative, and that’s where things get interesting. Take, for example, the physicality we’ve seen from some veterans, which rookies had to adapt to quickly. I can’t help but recall that incident involving Cliff Hodge and Zavier Lucero during the eliminations. Hodge’s foul on Lucero was, frankly, reckless—it led to a one-game suspension, and it sparked a lot of debate among fans and analysts. In my view, that kind of play has no place in the modern game, but it also serves as a reality check for newcomers. Lucero, who entered the draft with high expectations, had to learn fast about the intensity of PBA defense. It’s moments like these that shape a player’s career, and I think the 2022 draftees faced a steeper learning curve because of such physical encounters.
Moving to the later rounds, there were some hidden gems that I believe didn’t get enough attention. For instance, John Apacible going to Rain or Shine in the second round was a steal, in my book. He’s not the flashiest player, but his fundamentals are solid, and I’ve seen him hold his own against taller opponents. Then there’s Encho Serrano, who Phoenix picked up—a guard with explosive speed and a knack for scoring in traffic. I remember watching him in the PBA D-League and thinking, "This guy is going to surprise people." And he has, dropping double-digit points in limited minutes. On the flip side, some picks left me scratching my head. Like, why did certain teams pass on available shooters when three-point shooting is so crucial today? It’s these kinds of decisions that can haunt a franchise for years.
Now, let’s talk rankings beyond the draft order. If I were to re-rank the top players based on their rookie season impact, I’d put Ganuelas-Rosser still at the top—he averaged around 12 points and 7 rebounds per game, which is solid for a first-year big. But I’d bump up Tyler Tio higher; his playmaking and outside shooting (he hit about 38% from three, if I recall correctly) made him an instant contributor for Phoenix. Meanwhile, players like Lucero showed flashes of brilliance but were hampered by injuries and, as I mentioned earlier, that physical adjustment. It’s a reminder that draft rankings aren’t set in stone—they evolve with every game.
Wrapping this up, the 2022 PBA Draft was more than just a list of names; it was a snapshot of the league’s future, filled with promise and pitfalls. From my perspective, the standout players have already begun to justify their selections, while others are still finding their footing. But what makes it all so compelling is the human element—the fouls, the suspensions, the breakout performances. As a fan and analyst, I’m excited to see how these rookies continue to grow, and I wouldn’t be surprised if a few of them become All-Stars in the next couple of years. After all, drafts aren’t just about talent; they’re about heart, and this group has plenty of it.