The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has officially opened its doors for aspiring basketball talents eager to join the league for PBA Season 48. The league announced that the rookie draft will take place in October, and interested applicants have until 5 p.m. on September 10, 2023, to submit their requirements.
To be eligible for the draft, applicants must be 19 years old and above and should have completed at least two years of college education. Local players need to submit an original copy of their birth certificate, two 2×2 ID photos, school records (for those 19 years old), and a duly notarized PBA application form. Filipino-foreign players, on the other hand, must provide a valid Philippine passport, school records (if 19 years old), two 2×2 ID pictures, and a duly notarized PBA application form.
Prospective players can submit their requirements during office hours at the PBA Office located at 186 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Bagumbayan, Quezon City.
Among the early prospects for this year’s draft are promising talents such as Fran Yu, Keith Datu, Jolo Mendoza, Kim Aurin, Dominic Fajardo, and Louie Sangalang. The draft class is yet to be finalized, but standout players from the UAAP, including Schonny Winston from La Salle and Zav Lucero from UP, are expected to make a strong impact.
In addition, former New Zealand NBL player Ken Tuffin and PBA 3×3 players Keith Datu and Brandon Bates are also likely to join the draft, making it an exciting prospect for basketball enthusiasts.
Last year’s draft saw Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser as the no. 1 overall pick, followed by Jeremiah Gray, Jeo Ambohot, Justin Arana, and Gian Mamuyac. This year’s draft promises to be equally competitive and thrilling as the PBA continues to grow and nurture basketball talents in the Philippines. As the deadline approaches, the league eagerly awaits the submissions and looks forward to welcoming the next generation of basketball stars into the PBA fold.