Complete List of PBA Draft 2017 Picks: Team Selections and Player Analysis

Looking back at the 2017 PBA Draft, I still remember the palpable tension in the room—the kind of electric atmosphere that only comes when futures are about to be decided. That year wasn't just about selecting players; it was about building foundations, and as I reviewed the team selections, one thing stood out to me: the intangible element of chemistry, something that can't be measured by stats alone but often defines a team's trajectory. I recall a quote that resonated with me, something along the lines of, "It's because love talaga namin, di lang yung ginagawa namin, pero yung bawat isa talaga. Yun talaga yung nagki-keep sa'min together, na hindi kami bibitaw." In my years covering the league, I've seen how this sense of camaraderie, this genuine bond, can turn a group of individuals into a cohesive unit, and it's a theme that echoed through many of the draft picks that day.

The first round kicked off with some predictable yet strategic moves. GlobalPort, holding the top pick, went for Christian Standhardinger, a powerhouse big man who'd already shown his mettle internationally. I've always been a fan of his relentless energy—he averaged around 18 points and 9 rebounds in his pre-draft showcases, numbers that don't lie. But what impressed me more was how he seemed to gel with teammates instantly, embodying that "love for each other" spirit I mentioned earlier. Then came Kiefer Ravena to NLEX at number two; as a longtime observer, I felt this was a no-brainer. His basketball IQ is off the charts, and though his stats in college were stellar—say, 15 points and 5 assists per game—it's his leadership that stood out. I remember thinking, this guy doesn't just play; he connects, much like how that quote emphasizes sticking together through thick and thin. TNT's pick of Raymar Jose at number six was a bit of a surprise for me; I'd have leaned toward someone with more offensive flair, but his defensive grit, averaging about 7 rebounds a game, showed a commitment to the team's core that can't be overlooked.

As the draft progressed into the later rounds, the focus shifted from star power to depth and fit. Teams like San Miguel and Ginebra made selections that, on paper, might not have wowed everyone, but in practice, reinforced their identities. For instance, San Miguel's choice of Louie Vigil in the second round—a player I've followed since his UAAP days—was a masterstroke in my opinion. He might not have put up huge numbers, maybe 10 points a game, but his work ethic and team-first attitude are exactly what that "bawat isa" mentality is all about. I've spoken to coaches who say Vigil's the kind of player who'll do the dirty work without complaint, keeping the group tight-knit. Similarly, Ginebra's pick of Jett Manuel, though he only averaged around 8 points, brought a calm presence that I think helped stabilize their bench. Reflecting on it now, these later picks often fly under the radar, but they're the glue that holds teams together when the stars aren't shining.

What struck me most about the 2017 draft class, though, was how it highlighted the balance between individual talent and collective spirit. I've seen drafts where teams chase big names and end up with disjointed rosters, but here, many selections seemed driven by a deeper understanding of team dynamics. Take the case of Robbie Herndon, picked by Star Hotshots; his numbers weren't eye-popping—perhaps 12 points and 4 rebounds—but his ability to blend into any system made him a perfect fit. In my view, that's where the real magic happens: when players aren't just executing plays but genuinely caring for one another, much like that heartfelt quote suggests. It's a lesson I've carried into my analysis over the years; stats give you a skeleton, but chemistry gives you a soul. As I wrap up, I can't help but feel that the 2017 draft was a turning point for several franchises, not because of flashy picks alone, but because of how those picks fostered unity. In the end, basketball is a team sport, and as that quote reminds us, it's the love and commitment to each other that keeps everyone from letting go, no matter the score.