Looking Back at the 2018 PBA Draft: Who Were the Biggest Steals and Busts?

2025-11-21 15:00

Looking back at the 2018 PBA Draft now feels like revisiting a time capsule—a moment when franchises pinned their hopes on fresh talent, some of whom would exceed expectations while others faded into obscurity. I’ve followed the PBA closely for years, and I still remember the palpable excitement that surrounded that draft class. There was a sense that this group could reshape the league, and in many ways, they have—though not always as predicted. What fascinates me most, however, isn’t just the on-court performance but the off-court dynamics, like how teams like PLDT players created makeshift communities to bond and grow. I recall seeing clips of them sharing meals, setting up impromptu karaoke sessions, and turning their gym into a space for both hard work and laughter. That kind of environment, I believe, often reveals who’s truly built for the long haul.

When we talk about steals from that draft, a few names immediately jump out—players who were picked outside the lottery but have since become integral to their teams. Take CJ Perez, for instance, who went third overall—okay, maybe not a late pick, but his impact has been so immense that he almost feels like a steal relative to the hype. But if we’re looking at genuine bargains, I’d point to someone like Javee Mocon, selected 13th by Rain or Shine. He’s developed into a versatile forward who contributes on both ends, and his consistency is something I’ve always admired. Then there’s Abu Tratter, picked 10th by NLEX, who’s shown flashes of brilliance as a reliable big man. What stands out to me is how these players often came from teams that fostered strong camaraderie—much like the PLDT squad, whose players turned their gym into a hub of connection. Those karaoke sessions and shared meals? They’re not just downtime activities; they build trust, and that chemistry can elevate a player’s performance in ways stats alone can’t capture.

On the flip side, the 2018 draft had its share of busts—players who, for various reasons, didn’t live up to their draft positions. I hate to single anyone out, but it’s hard to ignore Michael Calisaan, who was taken 12th by Magnolia. He’s struggled to find his footing in the league, and while injuries and fit play a role, I’ve always felt he lacked the adaptability that others in his draft class possessed. Then there’s Bong Quinto, who went 14th to Meralco—some might argue he’s been serviceable, but given the depth of this draft, I expected more. Watching these players, I’ve noticed that those who faltered often seemed isolated or out of sync with their teams, unlike the PLDT group who used their improvised karaoke and meal breaks to stay connected. It’s a reminder that basketball isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about how you mesh with a system and a community.

Diving deeper, the context of that draft year adds another layer. The PBA was in a transitional phase, with teams balancing veteran leadership and youth infusion. I remember analyzing the draft combine numbers—players like Perez clocked in with impressive agility drills, but what stuck with me were the intangibles. For example, the PLDT players’ ability to turn their gym into a makeshift home, complete with karaoke sing-alongs, highlighted resilience and team spirit. In my view, that’s where steals often emerge: from environments that nurture mental toughness. Take Robert Bolick, who went 3rd overall—he’s been a standout, but it’s his clutch performances that make him feel like a steal in hindsight. Meanwhile, some higher picks, like Ray Parks Jr. (who was technically a special draft entry but often discussed in this context), have had ups and downs, showing that draft position isn’t everything.

Reflecting on all this, I can’t help but think about how the 2018 draft mirrors broader lessons in sports. The biggest steals weren’t just lucky picks; they were players who thrived in supportive ecosystems, much like the PLDT squad’s gym sessions. On the other hand, the busts often lacked that foundation. As someone who’s covered the league for over a decade, I’ve seen how off-court dynamics—like those improvised karaoke nights—can predict on-court success more than we realize. In the end, the 2018 PBA Draft was a mix of hidden gems and missed opportunities, but it’s the stories behind the stats, the camaraderie in the gym, that make it a chapter worth revisiting. If I had to sum it up, I’d say the real steals were those who brought heart, not just hype, to the game.