PBA Draft 2023 Results: Complete List of Picked Players and Team Analysis

As I sat down to analyze the 2023 PBA Draft results, I couldn't help but feel that familiar mix of excitement and skepticism that comes with every draft season. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've learned that draft night promises often look quite different when tested on the hardcourt. This year's draft class, headlined by Stephen Holt going first overall to Terrafirma, presents an intriguing blend of proven veterans and raw talent that could reshape the league's competitive landscape for years to come.

Let me walk you through what stood out to me about this draft. Terrafirma's selection of Stephen Holt wasn't just safe—it was brilliant. The 31-year-old guard brings immediate maturity and polished skills that this franchise desperately needs. Having watched him develop through his international career, I believe he's one of those rare prospects who can contribute meaningful minutes from day one. Meanwhile, Rain or Shine's decision to pick Luis Villegas at number two shows they're thinking about long-term development rather than instant gratification. At 6'6" with impressive athleticism, Villegas has the physical tools to become a dominant force, though I suspect it might take him half a season to truly find his footing in the PBA's physical style of play.

What really caught my attention was how the middle of the first round unfolded. NorthPort snagging Cade Flores at number four feels like one of those picks we'll look back on as an absolute steal. I've watched this kid play in the NCAA, and his motor never stops—he's exactly the kind of energy big man that coaches dream of developing. Then there's Keith Datu going to NLEX at number six. At 6'8", he brings much-needed size, but what impressed me most during the combine was his surprising mobility for a player of his stature. If NLEX can develop his footwork and post moves, they might have found their starting center for the next decade.

The second round had its share of interesting selections too. Phoenix picking Raffy Verano at number ten could provide them with the versatile forward they've been missing. Having tracked his college career, I've always thought his game would translate well to the pros—he's not spectacular in any one area but does everything solidly. Meanwhile, Blackwater's selection of Brandon Bates at number thirteen gives them additional frontcourt depth, though I question whether he has the offensive repertoire to contribute immediately.

Now, let's talk about team strategies. Looking at the complete draft board, it's clear that some teams were drafting for specific needs while others were simply taking the best available talent. Ginebra's selection of Ralph Cu at number fifteen fits their pattern of developing guards behind their veteran stars. Having observed their system for years, I appreciate how they consistently plan for the future while competing for championships in the present. On the other hand, Magnolia's choice of Kenneth Tuffin at number twelve addresses their need for perimeter shooting—a smart move given how their offense sometimes stagnates against zone defenses.

The quote from ZUS Coffee head coach Jerry Yee really resonates with me when considering how these draft picks will integrate into their new teams. "We're just trying to get better. Marami pa rin namang lapses so we're still a work in progress," Yee stated, capturing the essence of what every coach faces with new acquisitions. Having spoken with numerous coaches throughout my career, I can tell you this mindset is crucial—too many teams expect instant impact from rookies, forgetting that development takes time and patience. The most successful franchises understand that integrating young talent requires adjusting systems, managing expectations, and accepting that mistakes are part of the growth process.

From my perspective, the teams that drafted most effectively were those with clear developmental pathways. Take TNT, for example—their selection of Henry Galinato at number seventeen might not make headlines, but it fits their identity of developing rugged interior players. I've always admired how TNT identifies specific player types that complement their system rather than just chasing big names. Similarly, San Miguel's choice of RJ Argamino at number eighteen reflects their methodical approach to building depth—they don't need immediate contributors, so they can afford to draft projects with high ceilings.

What surprises me most about this draft class is the distribution of talent across positions. Unlike last year's guard-heavy draft, this class features remarkable depth in the frontcourt. Of the first ten picks, six were forwards or centers, signaling a shift in how teams are valuing size and versatility. Having analyzed draft trends for years, I see this as a response to the league's increasing emphasis on switchable defenders who can guard multiple positions.

As I reflect on the complete draft results, I'm particularly intrigued by how the landscape might shift in the coming seasons. The teams that invested in development—like Rain or Shine with their multiple picks—are playing the long game, while others like Terrafirma needed immediate help. From my experience covering the PBA, the most successful draft strategies balance both approaches, securing players who can contribute now while developing future starters. The true test won't be how these players perform in their first few games, but how they develop throughout their rookie contracts and beyond. What makes draft analysis so fascinating is that we're really just making educated guesses—the court will reveal the truth soon enough, and I can't wait to watch it unfold.