It is shaping up to be a deep, talent-laden PBA Rookie Draft class.
The 2023 PBA Draft Combine is underway as this year's draft class, which has a record-high 128 aspirants, is out to make an impression on scouts and team officials.
From the fans' perspective, though, It seems that there is already a number of PBA applicants who have turned heads during Day 1 of the combine.
Cignal TV's PBA Rush on Tuesday shared some photos of the draft applicants working their way through the drills.
Based on the photos posted, Fran Yu of the Letran Knights and MPBL guard Kyt Jimenez were among the players that netizens were keeping an eye on.
Jimenez, who's steady supply of jaw-dropping highlights may already sway some franchises, showed off his agility. Fans in the comment section then showed some love for the online sensation.
"Pasok 'to sigurado," wrote netizen CJ Andales.
A number of fans believe Jimenez can become a second round pick. PBA follower James Segovia, meanwhile, even already has a team in mind for Kyt: the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
"Sana mapunta siya sa ROS. Kay Coach Yeng [Guiao] lalabas ang laro niyan."
Hoops fan Airand Vicente, on the other hand, says Jimenez, a former member of Mavs Phenomenal, can help lure in more fans to the PBA.
"Any team should draft and play him, why? Because PBA will surely benefit sa napakalaking fan base nito."
On the other hand, Yu, a former NCAA Finals MVP, displayed his scoring prowess during the scrimmages.
Facebook user Jayde Acido believes Yu is already a shoo-in.
"Matic na 'to e."
Another fan in Hanuman DS thinks he will be drafted by the NorthPort Batang Pier, the same team he played for during the offseason showcase PBA On Tour.
Of course, fans also took notice of some notable names in the Draft Combine, including Ricci Rivero, Schonny Winston, and even John Amores, who figured in one of the most heated fights, or meltdowns if you may, in basketball history.
The upcoming PBA Draft is set on September 17. Who will be the 1st overall pick? We’ll have to wait and see on Sunday.
(GM)