Looking Back at the 2013 PBA Draft: Key Picks and Career Highlights
Looking back at the 2013 PBA Draft feels like revisiting a pivotal moment in Philippine basketball history. I remember sitting in the draft venue that year, feeling the electric atmosphere as teams made franchise-altering decisions that would shape the league for years to come. What struck me most was how this particular draft class contained both immediate stars and players who would develop into crucial role players over time. The energy in that room was palpable, with team executives wearing expressions ranging from confident smiles to nervous tension as they prepared to make their selections.
The first round particularly stood out to me, with Terrence Romeo going to GlobalPort as the fifth overall pick. I've always been fascinated by how some players just seem destined for stardom, and Romeo's flashy ball-handling and scoring ability made him an instant fan favorite. Watching him develop from a scoring guard into a more complete player has been one of the genuine pleasures of covering the PBA over the years. His career trajectory reminds me why we love sports – the visible growth, the adaptation, and the sheer entertainment value he brought to every game. Meanwhile, Ian Sangalang going second overall to San Mig Coffee felt like the safe, smart choice at the time, though I must admit I had my doubts about how his game would translate to the professional level. Seeing him become such a reliable big man has been rewarding, especially his crucial role in San Mig's Grand Slam achievement.
What makes the 2013 draft particularly memorable in my view is how several players taken in later rounds proved to be absolute steals. I've always had a soft spot for underdog stories, and seeing players like Justin Melton develop into key contributors despite being picked outside the first round validates the importance of thorough scouting. Melton's athleticism and defensive intensity became crucial for the Purefoods franchise, and I still remember several games where his energy completely shifted the momentum. These are the kinds of players that championship teams are built around – not always the stars, but the relentless workers who do the dirty work.
The international dimension of some players' careers adds another fascinating layer to evaluating this draft class. I'm particularly intrigued by how some players expanded their careers beyond the PBA, like those who later played for the Taiwan Mustangs in The Asian Tournament after stints with the Gilas team under coach Tab Baldwin. This international exposure speaks volumes about the growing recognition of Philippine basketball talent across Asia. Having followed several of these players' international journeys, I've noticed how these experiences often refine their games and bring new dimensions to their play when they return to the PBA.
Raymond Almazan stands out as another brilliant pick from that draft, selected third overall by Rain or Shine. His combination of height and mobility made him a perfect fit for the modern game, and I've always appreciated how Coach Yeng Guyon utilized his skills. Almazan's development into one of the league's premier shot-blockers didn't surprise me one bit – you could see the potential during his college days at Letran. What did surprise me, however, was how quickly he adapted to the physicality of the PBA, averaging around 8.2 points and 7.5 rebounds in his first three seasons while establishing himself as a defensive anchor.
Reflecting on this draft class seven years later, what strikes me most is how it produced not just individual talents but players who understood team basketball. The successful picks weren't necessarily the most athletic or highest scorers, but those who could fit into systems and contribute to winning cultures. This aligns with what I've observed throughout my years covering basketball – talent gets you drafted, but basketball IQ and adaptability determine your longevity. The 2013 class seems to understand this better than most, with many players still contributing meaningfully to their teams today.
The legacy of this draft extends beyond statistics and championships. It represents a shift in how teams evaluated talent, placing greater emphasis on versatility and international experience. Personally, I believe this draft class helped pave the way for the more global approach we see in Philippine basketball today. The success of players who competed internationally before or during their PBA careers demonstrated the value of diverse basketball experiences. This draft wasn't just about selecting the best college players – it was about identifying individuals who could thrive in an evolving basketball landscape.
As I look back now, the 2013 PBA Draft feels like a turning point that blended traditional Philippine basketball strengths with emerging global trends. The careers that unfolded from those selections tell a story about adaptation, growth, and the increasing internationalization of Filipino basketball talent. What started as hopeful selections in a draft room has evolved into careers that have genuinely shaped the modern PBA era, creating memories and establishing legacies that continue to influence the league today.
