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

Looking back at the 2017 PBA Rookie Draft feels like revisiting a pivotal moment in Philippine basketball history. I remember sitting in the crowd that day, feeling the electric atmosphere as teams made their selections—some predictable, others genuinely surprising. What struck me most wasn’t just the raw talent on display, but the mindset many of these rookies brought with them. It’s something I’ve come to appreciate more over the years: talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. In fact, one of the things that stood out to me then, and still does now, is how several of these players echoed a sentiment I’ve heard from seasoned pros: taking time not only to prepare the body but also to sharpen the mind is what gets you through rough stretches in your career.

Let’s start with the top picks. Kiefer Ravena was selected second overall by the NLEX Road Warriors, and honestly, he was one of the most mentally prepared rookies I’ve ever seen. Before even stepping onto the PBA court, he had already built a reputation in the amateur leagues and international play. I recall an interview where he mentioned dedicating hours to studying game footage and practicing mindfulness—something that’s often overlooked in a physically demanding sport like basketball. That mental sharpness showed in his rookie year, where he averaged around 16 points and 6 assists per game. It wasn’t just his athleticism; it was his decision-making under pressure that made him stand out. Similarly, Jason Perkins, who went fourth to the Phoenix Fuel Masters, brought a work ethic that balanced physical drills with mental conditioning. I’ve followed his journey closely, and it’s no surprise he ended up winning Rookie of the Year. He didn’t just rely on his 6’4” frame; he often spoke about visualizing plays and staying focused during slumps, which helped him shoot nearly 40% from beyond the arc in his debut season.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Some picks, like Robbie Herndon who was taken 11th by the Star Hotshots, faced tougher transitions. I remember thinking at the time that his athleticism was undeniable, but the mental side of the game seemed to catch him off guard initially. He struggled in his first few games, averaging just 5 points, but what impressed me was how he adapted. Later interviews revealed he started working with a sports psychologist, emphasizing that mental preparation was key to bouncing back. It’s a lesson I’ve seen play out repeatedly: players who neglect the mind often hit a ceiling, no matter how gifted they are physically. On the other hand, someone like Sidney Onwubere, picked 10th by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, showed flashes of brilliance but inconsistency, partly because, in my view, he took longer to develop that mental edge. His stats hovered around 7 points and 4 rebounds per game—decent, but not groundbreaking—and I can’t help but think a stronger focus on mental training earlier on might have elevated his impact.

Reflecting on this draft class, I’ve come to believe that the most successful rookies weren’t necessarily the most physically dominant, but those who embraced a holistic approach to their development. Take the case of the 2017 draft’s later rounds; players like Joseph Gabayni, selected 18th by GlobalPort, had the size and strength but faded from the spotlight quickly, in part because the mental grind of the PBA proved overwhelming. In contrast, those who prioritized sharpening their minds, like Ravena and Perkins, not only survived but thrived, contributing to their teams in ways that went beyond the stat sheet. From my perspective as someone who’s followed the league for years, this draft reinforced a truth I hold dear: in professional sports, resilience is built as much in the mind as in the gym. As we look ahead, it’s a reminder for future rookies—and honestly, for anyone in a high-pressure career—that balancing physical prep with mental fortitude isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for long-term success.