I’ve been following the PBA for years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the league’s future is always shaped by a mix of emerging talent and underrated players stepping into the spotlight. Watching teams evolve—like NLEX’s memorable run to the semifinals in the 2021 Governors’ Cup—reminds me just how quickly fortunes can change. That season, NLEX showed grit and cohesion, but since then, the landscape has shifted. New faces are rising, and I can’t help but feel excited about the players poised to make waves in the coming seasons. Let’s dive into some names that, in my view, deserve your attention.
First off, let’s talk about Robert Bolick. Even though he’s already made a name for himself, I believe his best years are still ahead. After his stint with NLEX and now potentially settling into a leadership role elsewhere, his playmaking and clutch performances remind me of some classic PBA guards. I remember watching him drop 25 points in a crucial game last conference—his ability to read defenses is just stellar. But what really stands out is his drive; he’s not just scoring, he’s elevating his teammates. In my opinion, if he stays healthy, he could be the engine for a Finals-bound team sooner rather than later. And with NLEX’s 2021 semifinals appearance as a benchmark, players like Bolick show how individual brilliance can spark team success.
Then there’s Calvin Oftana. I’ve had my eye on him since his college days, and his transition to the pros has been impressive. Standing at 6’5”, he brings versatility that’s rare—he can shoot from outside, drive to the basket, and defend multiple positions. Last season, he averaged around 12 points and 6 rebounds per game, but I think those numbers are just scratching the surface. Watching him in a recent match, I noticed how he’s bulked up and improved his decision-making under pressure. For NLEX, tapping into his potential could be key to returning to the semis, much like they did in 2021. Personally, I see him as a future MVP candidate if he maintains this trajectory. It’s players like Oftana who make me optimistic about the league’s depth.
Another guy I’m high on is Justin Arana. As a big man, he’s shown flashes of dominance that remind me of June Mar Fajardo in his early years—though, of course, he’s got a long way to go. In the 2022-2023 season, he put up roughly 8 points and 7 rebounds per game, but his shot-blocking and energy off the bench are what catch my eye. I recall one game where he had three blocks in a single quarter; that kind of impact can change momentum instantly. For teams looking to build a defensive identity, Arana could be a cornerstone. And let’s not forget, NLEX’s 2021 run was built on solid team defense, so integrating young talents like him might just replicate that success. From my perspective, his development will be fun to watch, especially if he gets more minutes.
Shifting to the guard spot, I can’t ignore Javi Gómez de Liaño. He’s one of those players who might fly under the radar, but his athleticism and international experience give him an edge. Having followed his journey from UAAP to the PBA, I’ve seen him grow into a more polished scorer. In a hypothetical scenario, if he joins a team like NLEX, his speed could complement their half-court sets beautifully. I’d estimate he’s capable of averaging 10-15 points per game with increased playing time, and his highlight-reel dunks alone could energize a franchise. Honestly, I’m a bit biased here because I love players who bring excitement to the game, and Gómez de Liaño does just that. If he tightens his three-point shooting—say, from 30% to 35%—he’ll be unstoppable.
Now, let’s consider some rookies and recent draftees. While I don’t have exact stats for everyone, names like Shaun Ildefonso come to mind. As a second-generation player, he’s got that pedigree and work ethic that often translates well. I watched him in a pre-season game where he scored 18 points off the bench, showing off his mid-range game. It’s early, but I have a hunch he’ll be a solid role player who could blossom into a star. Reflecting on NLEX’s 2021 campaign, they benefited from depth, and adding young blood like Ildefonso might help them sustain that. In my view, the PBA’s future isn’t just about superstars; it’s about these hidden gems who step up when it counts.
Wrapping this up, I feel the PBA is entering an era where youth and experience will blend in exciting ways. Players like Bolick, Oftana, Arana, Gómez de Liaño, and emerging rookies are the ones to watch because they embody the league’s evolution. NLEX’s semifinals appearance in the 2021 Governors’ Cup serves as a reminder that teams need to invest in talent early to compete. As a fan and analyst, I’m leaning into optimism—these players aren’t just prospects; they’re the future faces of Philippine basketball. Keep an eye on them; you might just witness the next big leap in PBA history.
