A Look Back at the Top Picks From the PBA Rookie Draft 2017

Looking back at the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft, I can’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and professional curiosity. That year, the Philippine Basketball Association welcomed a fresh wave of talent—some of whom have since become household names, while others drifted into relative obscurity. As someone who has followed the league closely for over a decade, I’ve always believed that a player’s transition from amateur to professional ranks isn’t just about raw skill. It’s about mental fortitude, adaptability, and the kind of preparation that goes beyond the court. I remember watching the draft proceedings and thinking how these young athletes were stepping into a world where physical prowess alone wouldn’t cut it.

One standout from that draft class, without a doubt, is Jason Perkins. Selected fourth overall by the Phoenix Fuel Masters, Perkins brought a level of consistency and maturity that you don’t always see in rookies. Over his first three seasons, he averaged around 12 points and 7 rebounds per game—numbers that might not scream "superstar" but reflect a reliable, hardworking player. What impressed me most, though, was his approach to the mental side of the game. I recall an interview where he mentioned how he’d spend hours studying game footage, not just his own but also of veteran players. That deliberate focus on mental sharpness reminds me of a broader truth in sports: the best athletes understand that their minds need as much training as their bodies. It’s something I’ve seen time and again—players who invest in psychological readiness tend to handle pressure better and adapt faster to the PBA’s grueling schedule.

Then there’s Robbie Herndon, picked seventh by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. Herndon’s journey has been a bit more turbulent, with trades and injuries testing his resolve. But watching his development, I’ve noticed how he’s managed to stay relevant by working on his versatility. He didn’t just rely on his athleticism; he expanded his skill set, adding a reliable three-point shot that now makes him a threat from beyond the arc. In my view, this kind of adaptability is rooted in the same principle: taking time to sharpen the mind. Herndon’s ability to reset after setbacks—whether a shooting slump or a team change—shows he’s internalized the need for holistic preparation. Frankly, I think more young players should take note; it’s not enough to show up physically fit if you’re mentally unprepared for the league’s demands.

Of course, not every pick panned out as hoped. Some draftees, like Julian Sargent (selected 12th), struggled to find their footing and eventually faded from the spotlight. Reflecting on this, I’ve always felt that the gap between potential and performance often comes down to mindset. Sargent had the physical tools—decent height, agility—but from what I observed, he seemed to buckle under the pressure of expectations. It’s a tough lesson, but one that underscores why mental training is non-negotiable. In fact, I’d argue that teams today should prioritize psychological coaching as much as tactical drills, especially for rookies. The 2017 draft, in hindsight, serves as a perfect case study: those who embraced mental discipline, like Perkins, carved out lasting careers, while others who overlooked it found the transition overwhelming.

Wrapping up, the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft wasn’t just a showcase of new talent—it was a reminder that success in professional sports hinges on more than physical gifts. As I look back, I’m convinced that the players who thrived did so because they invested in their mental game early on. They understood, perhaps instinctively, that rough stretches are inevitable, but how you prepare your mind can make all the difference. For fans and aspiring athletes alike, this draft class offers valuable insights: greatness isn’t just born; it’s built through relentless, holistic effort. And if there’s one takeaway I’d emphasize, it’s that the next generation of PBA stars should take a page from Perkins’ book—train the body, but never forget to sharpen the mind.