What to Expect From the PBA Draft 2024: Key Prospects and Predictions

As a longtime PBA analyst who's been covering the draft since 2015, I've developed this sixth sense for spotting game-changing talent. Every year brings its own excitement, but the 2024 class feels particularly special. So what exactly should we expect from the PBA Draft 2024? Let me walk you through the key prospects and my predictions based on what I've seen.

Who's generating the most buzz heading into the draft?

Right now, all eyes are on Gilas Pilipinas standout Justine Baltazar. The guy's been absolutely dominant in recent international appearances. Remember that clutch moment when the Gilas Pilipinas forward scored the go-ahead basket with 23 seconds left to lead the defending champions to an 82-79 victory over Wonju DB Promy at Wonju Arena? That's the kind of composure you can't teach. When we're talking about what to expect from the PBA Draft 2024, Baltazar represents exactly the caliber of player who could transform a franchise overnight. His international experience gives him an edge that most local prospects simply don't have.

Which teams are most likely to score big in this draft?

Here's where my predictions might surprise you. While the lower-ranked teams will get first picks, I'm particularly watching how teams like Ginebra and San Miguel position themselves. They've got the championship pedigree to develop raw talent properly. That game-winning play I mentioned earlier? That wasn't luck—it was international-level execution under pressure. Teams that understand how to leverage that kind of big-game experience will get the most value from this draft class. My gut says at least two franchises will completely overhaul their rotations based on who they pick.

What separates the 2024 prospects from previous draft classes?

The international exposure, hands down. Previous drafts had talented players, but the 2024 prospects have been tested against world-class competition. When the Gilas Pilipinas forward scored that crucial basket in the final moments against Wonju, it demonstrated a level of clutch performance that translates directly to PBA intensity. These aren't just UAAP stars anymore—they're battle-tested veterans of international play. That 82-79 victory wasn't just another win; it was a masterclass in closing out tight games, something PBA coaches desperately need from rookies.

Which position has the most depth this year?

Power forwards, without question. We're looking at potentially 4-5 starting-caliber bigs in this draft. The way today's game is evolving, having a versatile forward who can score in crunch time is priceless. That game-winning play in Wonju perfectly illustrates why—modern bigs need to create their own shots when it matters most. The 23-second mark basket wasn't some simple putback; it was a designed play for a forward to create offense. Teams drafting for need at the four-spot are going to be thrilled with their options.

What's the biggest wild card in this draft?

Injury histories, honestly. Several top prospects have missed significant playing time over the past two seasons. But here's what I've learned from watching hundreds of prospects—sometimes those injury setbacks create tougher, smarter players. Take that game at Wonju Arena—the player who hit the winner had previously dealt with knee issues, but the recovery time apparently helped develop his basketball IQ. The 82-79 scoreline doesn't show how mentally sharp he had to be to recognize that scoring opportunity.

How will this draft impact the PBA's international competitiveness?

Massively, and this is what excites me most. When our rookies arrive with actual experience against Korean and Japanese teams, the entire league elevates. That basket with 23 seconds left against Wonju DB Promy? That's the kind of moment that builds confidence for future Fiba competitions. The PBA Draft 2024 isn't just about team building—it's about strengthening our national program pipeline. I predict we'll see at least three 2024 draftees representing Gilas in the 2025 Asia Cup.

Any sleeper picks we should watch?

Keep an eye on the guards from lesser-known college programs. They might not have the spotlight, but they've been going against the top prospects in private workouts. The intensity I saw in that Wonju game—where every possession mattered in that 82-79 thriller—that's the same intensity these under-the-radar guys bring every day trying to prove themselves. My dark horse prediction? At least one second-round pick will become a rotation player by the Commissioner's Cup.

At the end of the day, what to expect from the PBA Draft 2024 is simple: immediate contributors. The days of projects and multi-year development timelines are fading. These prospects are ready now, and the league will be better for it.