The elimination round has ended for the PBA Governors' Cup, but it has shown plenty of gems among the Season 49 rookies.
The PBA Governors' Cup elimination round has concluded, showcasing the impressive performances of several rookie players. Here are the top rookies in key statistical categories:
On the mark: Sedrick Barefield (Blackwater Bossing)
- Elimination average: 18.9 PPG
54.22% 2-PT FG% | 32.81% 3-PT FG% | 3/13 4-PT FG
- Next in line: RJ Abarrientos (Ginebra): 14.6 PPG | Felix Lemetti (Rain or Shine): 11.9 PPG
Sedrick Barefield, the second overall pick in the PBA Season 49 draft, lived up to expectations, leading all rookies in scoring.
Averaging 18.9 points in 10 games, Barefield's efficiency was evident in his 54.22% field goal percentage from two-point range and his ability to knock down three-pointers.
While Blackwater narrowly missed the quarterfinals, Barefield solidified his status as contender for Rookie of the Year.
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Prince of Threes: Felix Lemetti (Rain or Shine Elasto Painters)
- Elimination average: 58.7% 3-PT FG% | 27-of-46 three-point field goals made
- Next in line: Evan Nelle (NorthPort): 45.0% | RJ Abarrientos (Ginebra): 38.46%
Felix Lemetti, selected eighth overall by Rain or Shine, showcased his sharpshooting skills, leading all rookies in three-point percentage.
Converting 58.7% of his attempts from beyond the arc, Lemetti's ability to stretch the floor provided a valuable asset for the Elasto Painters as they battle in the quarterfinals against the Magnolia Hotshots.
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Board Man: Jonnel Policarpio (NLEX Road Warriors)
Elimination average: 5.78 RPG
Next in line: Caelan Tiongson (Rain or Shine): 4.22 RPG | Kai Ballungay (Phoenix): 4.0 RPG
Jonnel Policarpio, drafted sixth overall by NLEX, dominated the boards, averaging 5.78 rebounds.
His rebounding prowess contributed to the Road Warriors' success, helping them secure a playoff spot and battle the TNT Tropang Giga in the quarterfinals.
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Prime dimes: Sedrick Barefield (Blackwater Bossing)
- Elimination average: 4.2 APG
- Next in line: RJ Abarrientos (Ginebra): 2.8 APG | Paolo Hernandez (Terrafirma): 2.6 APG
In addition to his scoring prowess, Barefield also excelled as a playmaker, making 4.2 assists per game. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates further highlighted his versatility.
Man of steals: RJ Abarrientos (Barangay Ginebra San Miguel)
- Elimination average: 1.3 SPG | 13 total steals
- Next in line: CJ Cansino (Meralco): 1.1 SPG | Sedrick Barefield (Blackwater): 1.0 SPG
RJ
Abarrientos, acquired by Barangay Ginebra San Miguel after switching draft picks with the Terrafirma Dyip, showcased his defensive prowess, leading all rookies in steals with 13.
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His ability to disrupt opposing offenses was instrumental in Ginebra's success as the Barangay take on the Meralco Bolts in the quarterfinals. Abarrientos is also making a case for himself as Rookie of the Year.
Shot swatters: Jonnel Policarpio (NLEX Road Warriors), Caelan Tiongzon (Rain or Shine Elasto Painters), and CJ Cansino (Meralco Bolts)
Elimination tally: 4 total steals each
Three rookies shared the lead in blocks, with Jonnel Policarpio, Caelan Tiongzon, and CJ Cansino each recording four blocks each during the elimination round.
Policarpio and Tiongzon (both selected by Rain or Shine), along with Cansino (drafted by Meralco) demonstrated their ability to protect the rim.
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