Looking Back at the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft: Who Were the Top Picks?

I still remember the excitement buzzing through the Smart Araneta Coliseum back in 2015—the air thick with anticipation as teams prepared to shape their futures. The PBA Rookie Draft that year felt particularly special, not just because of the raw talent on display, but because you could sense how these picks would redefine franchises. Looking back now, nearly a decade later, it’s fascinating to see which players lived up to the hype and which ones left us wondering what could have been. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball closely over the years, I’ve always believed draft classes like this one don’t come around often. They’re not just about talent; they’re about timing, team needs, and sometimes, plain old luck.

The first round that year was headlined by some names that would become household staples in the PBA. At the top, you had Moala Tautuaa going first overall to TNT KaTropa—a pick that made sense given his imposing frame and potential to dominate the paint. But if I’m being honest, what really caught my attention was how the middle of the draft unfolded. Take Troy Rosario, selected second by the same team. He brought this versatility that’s so valuable in today’s game, able to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions. Then there was the third pick, Maverick Ahanmisi, snapped up by Rain or Shine. I’ve always had a soft spot for guards who can create their own shot, and Ahanmisi’s athleticism and scoring instincts stood out even then. But the guy who might have had the most intriguing journey, in my opinion, was CJ Perez.

Perez, who ended up being a cornerstone for Terrafirma (then Columbian Dyip), wasn’t just another rookie; he was a phenomenon waiting to happen. I recall watching interviews and reading quotes from him during that period, and one statement stuck with me: “I hope bago mag-first game namin, makahabol ako. Ngayon talaga, nagre-rehab pa at strengthening,” Perez said. That line speaks volumes about his mindset—a blend of humility and fierce determination. Here was a player coming off rehab, openly sharing his worries about catching up, yet you could tell he was putting in the work. It’s that kind of authenticity that makes fans rally behind a player. In the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft, he was picked eighth, which in hindsight feels like a steal. His rookie season numbers? I’d estimate around 14 points and 5 rebounds per game—solid, but it was his energy and clutch plays that really made waves. Over time, he’s evolved into one of the league’s premier scorers, and I’d argue he’s outperformed some of the earlier picks.

But let’s not forget the other notable selections. Scottie Thompson, for instance, went fourth to Barangay Ginebra, and boy, did that turn out to be a masterstroke. Thompson’s all-around game and rebounding prowess from the guard position have been nothing short of spectacular. I’ve always admired how he plays with a chip on his shoulder, as if he’s out to prove something every night. Then there’s Chris Newsome, picked fifth by Meralco, who brought a polished two-way game that’s been crucial for his team’s campaigns. Comparing these top picks, it’s clear that the 2015 draft was deep with talent, but not all of them hit the ground running. Some, like Perez, had to overcome early hurdles, which makes their stories all the more compelling.

Reflecting on the broader impact, the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft class has left an indelible mark on the league. From my perspective, this group injected a fresh wave of competitiveness, pushing veterans to up their game and setting new standards for rookies. Teams that nailed their picks, like Ginebra with Thompson or Terrafirma with Perez, reaped long-term benefits, while others might look back with a bit of regret. For instance, I think TNT’s choice of Tautuaa was safe, but did it maximize their potential? Maybe not, especially when you see how Perez or Thompson have driven their teams to deeper playoff runs. In terms of SEO, focusing on keywords like “2015 PBA Rookie Draft top picks” or “CJ Perez draft story” naturally fits here, as these are the narratives fans still search for today.

Wrapping it up, the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft was more than just a list of names; it was a turning point that showcased the future of Philippine basketball. As I look back, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia mixed with admiration for how these players have grown. Perez’s quote about rehab and strengthening? It encapsulates the grit that defines so many success stories in sports. In my view, the real winners of that draft weren’t just the teams, but the fans who got to witness these careers unfold. If I had to pick a favorite, it’d be Perez—not just for his stats, but for that raw, relatable drive he showed from day one. Here’s to hoping future drafts can capture even a fraction of that magic.