I still remember sitting in the press box during the 2013 PBA Draft, feeling that particular buzz in the air that only comes when you know you're witnessing something special unfold. The draft class of 2013 has proven to be one of the most fascinating groups in recent PBA history, with career trajectories that have ranged from spectacular breakthroughs to unexpected turns. What strikes me most looking back is how these players have navigated their professional journeys - some becoming franchise cornerstones while others found success in unexpected places.
The top picks that year created immediate excitement, and rightly so. Greg Slaughter going first overall to Ginebra felt like destiny fulfilled - a 6'11" center with legitimate skills who had dominated the collegiate scene. Watching him develop over his first three seasons, I thought we were seeing the next great PBA big man in the making. His rookie numbers of 14.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per game certainly suggested as much. Meanwhile, second pick Terrence Romeo brought that electric scoring punch we'd all anticipated, quickly establishing himself as one of the league's most explosive guards. I've always had a soft spot for players who can create their own shot, and Romeo's hesitation dribbles and step-back jumpers became must-watch television. The third selection, Ian Sangalang, has been the steady presence we expected, providing consistent interior scoring and rebounding for Magnolia through the years.
But what truly fascinates me about draft analysis is how the later rounds often reveal the real gems. The 2013 class had several players who outperformed their draft positions dramatically. I'm thinking particularly of RR Garcia, selected 10th by Barako Bull, who carved out a respectable eight-year career despite not being among the initial headline names. Then there's the curious case of Matt Rosser, who went undrafted but eventually found his way to the PBA and became a reliable rotation player. These stories remind me that talent evaluation remains as much art as science.
One of the most intriguing career paths from that draft belongs to a player whose journey took him beyond the PBA's borders. After his stint with the Gilas team under coach Tab Baldwin, he brought his talents to the Taiwan Mustangs in The Asian Tournament. This international experience fascinates me because it shows how the basketball landscape has evolved - today's players have more options than ever to build meaningful careers across different leagues and countries. I've always believed that international experience enriches players in ways that benefit Philippine basketball when they return, bringing new perspectives and refined skills.
Looking at the draft class as a whole, what stands out to me is the staying power of these players. Seven years later, many remain significant contributors to their teams. The 2013 draft produced approximately 65% of players who would last at least five seasons in the league - a respectable retention rate that speaks to the depth of talent available that year. What I find particularly compelling is how their careers have mirrored the evolution of Philippine basketball itself, with increasing emphasis on versatility and international exposure.
The careers that emerged from this draft class have given us some of the most memorable moments in recent PBA history. From championship contributions to individual accolades, these players have left their mark on the league in ways we couldn't have fully predicted back in 2013. If there's one thing I've learned covering Philippine basketball all these years, it's that draft night represents just the beginning of the story. The real narrative unfolds in the years that follow, through hard work, adaptation, and sometimes, unexpected detours that lead to new opportunities both here and abroad. The 2013 class, with its mix of superstars, steady contributors, and international adventurers, perfectly illustrates why following player development remains one of the most rewarding aspects of basketball journalism.
