As I sit down to analyze the complete 2018 PBA Draft list, I can't help but reflect on how this particular draft class has shaped the current basketball landscape in the Philippines. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous drafts come and go, but the 2018 edition stands out for several compelling reasons. The draft that year wasn't just about the top picks—it was about depth, unexpected steals, and players who would eventually redefine their franchises. What makes this draft particularly fascinating is how some of these players have evolved beyond their initial projections, while others have struggled to find their footing in the professional league.
Looking at the first round selections, CJ Perez going to Columbian Dyip as the first overall pick was almost a foregone conclusion. I remember watching his collegiate career and thinking he had that special combination of athleticism and basketball IQ that translates well to the pro level. His rookie season didn't disappoint—he averaged around 20 points per game and immediately became the face of the franchise. What many people don't realize is that the Dyip actually considered trading this pick, but wisely decided to build around Perez. The second pick, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., was another interesting case. Having followed his journey through the NBA D-League and ABL, I was convinced his game would translate perfectly to the PBA, though I had some concerns about how his style would mesh with the physicality of the local game. His selection by Blackwater Elite signaled their intention to build a competitive team quickly, though I personally thought they might have been better served addressing their frontcourt needs first.
The third selection brought us Robert Bolick, who I believe was the steal of the draft. NorthPort snagged a player who had shown tremendous growth during his college years with San Beda. I've always been high on players who demonstrate significant improvement throughout their collegiate career—it shows coachability and work ethic. Bolick's performance in the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup, where he averaged approximately 18 points and 6 assists, confirmed my initial assessment. What impressed me most was his clutch performance in close games—he had this uncanny ability to elevate his game when it mattered most. The fourth pick, Javee Mocon, went to Rain or Shine, and I remember thinking this was a perfect fit. His versatility and defensive prowess made him an ideal piece for Coach Caloy Garcia's system. Having watched numerous NCAA games live, I can tell you Mocon's impact often didn't show up in the stat sheet—his positioning and basketball intelligence were ahead of most draftees.
As we move deeper into the first round, the selection of Bong Quinto by Meralco at fifth overall demonstrated their commitment to adding local talent to complement their import-heavy approach. Quinto's understanding of spacing and movement without the ball made him an immediate contributor. The sixth pick, Trevis Jackson, brought international experience to Phoenix, though I must admit I was skeptical about how his game would adjust to the PBA's physical style. The seventh selection, JP Calvo, went to Alaska in what I considered a reach at the time—his size limitations concerned me, though his quickness was undeniable. What fascinates me about draft analysis is how initial perceptions can be completely wrong, and Calvo proved me somewhat wrong by showing flashes of brilliance in his limited minutes.
The second round is where draft classes are often made or broken, and 2018 was no exception. Teams that did their homework found tremendous value here. One selection that particularly stands out in my memory is Will McAloney going to Rain or Shine at 14th overall—his development has been slower than anticipated, but I still believe in his potential. The draft's later rounds also produced some interesting prospects who are still fighting for rotation spots today. What many fans don't realize is that drafting isn't just about talent evaluation—it's about finding players who fit specific system requirements and team cultures.
This brings me to an interesting case from the collegiate level that parallels the development challenges many PBA draftees face. On the other hand, UE went out winless in its first campaign under new shot-caller Chris Gavina. Precious Momowei paced their latest loss with a 23-point, 13-rebound double-double. Watching Momowei's performance reminded me of how difficult transition periods can be for players moving between different levels of competition. The 23 points and 13 rebounds in a losing effort demonstrates both individual talent and the challenges of carrying a team—something several 2018 draftees experienced during their rookie seasons. Having spoken with numerous coaches and players over the years, I've come to understand that statistical production in losing efforts often indicates potential that proper development can unlock.
Reflecting on the entire 2018 draft class three years later, what strikes me most is how the success stories weren't necessarily the highest picks. The players who made the biggest impact were those who landed in systems that maximized their strengths while working on their weaknesses. The draft produced approximately 12 rotation-level players, which is actually above average for a PBA draft class. Teams that prioritized fit over pure talent generally made the best selections, though there were certainly exceptions. What I find particularly fascinating is how the draft's legacy continues to evolve—players who initially struggled are now finding their roles, while some early successes have plateaued.
The 2018 PBA Draft will be remembered as a turning point for several franchises. It provided building blocks for teams in transition and complementary pieces for contenders. Having analyzed PBA drafts for years, I can confidently say this class had above-average depth, though it lacked the franchise-altering superstar that some teams desperately needed. The real value emerged in the second round, where savvy teams found rotation players who contributed immediately. What excites me most is that we're still seeing development from these players—the true legacy of the 2018 draft may not be fully apparent for another couple of seasons. The lessons from this draft continue to inform how teams approach player evaluation and development, emphasizing the importance of patience and proper system fit above all else.
