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

Looking back at the 2017 PBA Draft, I still remember the palpable excitement in the room—the kind of electric atmosphere that only comes when you know careers are about to be launched and team fortunes reshaped. That year wasn’t just about raw talent; it was about heart, chemistry, and the kind of commitment that echoes that beautiful quote from one of the players: "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." That spirit, that bond, was something I saw reflected in several of the draft picks, and it’s a big part of why some of these players have thrived while others struggled to find their footing.

Kiefer Ravena was the undeniable star of the draft, going first overall to the NLEX Road Warriors. I’ve followed his career since his amateur days, and what always stood out to me was his court vision and leadership—qualities you can’t just teach. In his rookie year, he put up around 16 points and 6 assists per game, numbers that immediately justified NLEX’s faith in him. But beyond stats, it was his connection with teammates that made the difference. You could see it in how he orchestrated plays; it wasn’t just about his skills, but that "love for each other" he often emphasized, which helped NLEX build a more cohesive unit. Christian Standhardinger, picked second by the San Miguel Beerman (though traded shortly after), brought a relentless energy that I admired. His physical style and averaging close to a double-double in his early games showed why he was so coveted, but what really made him stand out was how he integrated into teams—always putting the group first, much like that quote suggests.

Then there were the surprises, like the Blackwater Elite selecting Raymar Jose in the first round. I’ll be honest, I had my doubts initially, given his quieter profile, but his work ethic and team-first attitude won me over. He wasn’t the flashiest pick, averaging maybe 7 points and 5 rebounds as a rookie, but his willingness to do the dirty work reminded me of how that "love for one another" can elevate a team beyond individual accolades. On the other hand, some picks like Lervin Flores, who went to the GlobalPort Batang Pier, didn’t pan out as hoped. Flores had the height and potential, but injuries and fit issues limited his impact—a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough without that deeper connection to the team’s culture.

The second round had its gems, too, like Jorey Napoles being snatched up by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. I’ve always had a soft spot for underdogs, and Napoles proved that hard work and team spirit can trump draft position. He didn’t light up the stat sheet right away, but his versatility and hustle made him a fan favorite, embodying that idea of not giving up on each other. Meanwhile, players like Jon Gabriel, picked by the Phoenix Fuel Masters, showed flashes but struggled with consistency—something I think could’ve been mitigated with stronger locker room bonds. Reflecting on it, the teams that prioritized chemistry, like the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel with their selection of Julian Sargent, often saw better long-term results. Sargent wasn’t a headline grabber, but his role-player mindset and dedication mirrored the quote’s essence, helping Ginebra maintain their gritty identity.

In the later rounds, picks like Michael Calisaan by the Magnolia Hotshots demonstrated how depth selections can pay off if they buy into the team’s vision. Calisaan’s numbers might not jump out—maybe 4 points per game initially—but his defensive tenacity and camaraderie were invaluable. I remember watching him in practice once, and the way he cheered on teammates even when he wasn’t in the spotlight spoke volumes about that unbreakable bond. Conversely, some late picks fizzled out due to lack of opportunity or fit, underscoring how crucial it is for teams to foster an environment where players feel valued beyond their on-court contributions.

Wrapping up, the 2017 PBA Draft was a fascinating mix of star power and hidden potential, but what sticks with me years later is how the most successful picks were those who embraced that philosophy of love and unity. As a longtime observer, I’ve seen drafts come and go, but this one highlighted that basketball isn’t just a game of numbers—it’s about people coming together, refusing to let go, and building something lasting. That’s why, even today, I find myself revisiting those selections and appreciating how they shaped the league’s narrative, proving that when talent meets heart, anything is possible.