This year’s PBA draft is devoid of thrill

by Jonas Terrado

Christian Standhardinger is expected to be named as the first overall pick of the San Miguel Beermen today when the PBA holds its annual rookie draft at the Robinsons Place in Ermita, Manila.

Two days after getting the approval from PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa to take Kia’s right to choose first through a trade, San Miguel is set to welcome the 6-foot-8 Fil-German to its star-studded lineup in the 4 p.m. proceeding.

Standhardinger will fly in from Hong Kong where he is contracted to play for the Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions in the ASEAN Basketball League to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime experience of having to go up stage and greet his new team.

Barring a last-minute change of heart by San Miguel higher-ups, NLEX will go for former Ateneo star Kiefer Ravena as the No. 2 overall selection. Road Warriors coach Yeng Guiao has openly expressed his desire to take the fan-favorite should Standhardinger emerge as the first named called in the draft.

Blackwater, selecting third, is keen on getting a big man in the draft, though former La Salle star Jeron Teng could be the best player available by the time they’re on the clock.

Possible options for their desire frontline help are Teng’s former Green Archers teammate Jason Perkins and ex-Far Eastern University star Raymar Jose.

New Phoenix coach Louie Alas’ first order of business is to draft two players in the first round. The Fuel Masters have the fourth and eighth picks.

Alaska will choose fifth, GlobalPort sixth, Rain or Shine seventh, Star ninth, followed by TNT KaTropa, Governors’ Cup champion Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and again TNT.

Forty-four players compose the list of this year’s draft class.