Looking Back at the 2013 PBA Draft: Where Are the Top Picks Now?

Looking back at the 2013 PBA Draft feels like flipping through an old basketball yearbook where some faces remain vividly present while others have faded into memory. As someone who has followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve always found drafts fascinating—they’re these hopeful moments where potential meets opportunity, but reality often has its own script. The 2013 draft class was particularly intriguing because it arrived at a time when the league was transitioning toward a faster, more international style of play. I remember watching the draft coverage live, thinking how these young men would shape the future of the PBA. Now, a decade later, it’s clear that some have soared beyond expectations, while others have taken paths no one could have predicted.

The top pick that year was Greg Slaughter, a towering center who had already built a reputation in the collegiate leagues. At 7 feet tall, he was seen as the next big thing—literally and figuratively—for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first; big men in the PBA often struggle with the physicality and pace, but Slaughter quickly proved his worth. In his rookie season, he averaged around 14 points and 9 rebounds per game, numbers that made him an instant contender for Rookie of the Year. Over the years, he became a cornerstone for Ginebra, helping them secure multiple championships. But what’s interesting is how his journey took an unexpected turn. After several seasons, he moved to Japan’s B.League, and more recently, I heard he’s been exploring opportunities in regional tournaments. It’s a reminder that even top picks navigate winding roads, adapting to new leagues and cultures.

Then there’s the second pick, Raymond Almazan, who went to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. Almazan brought a unique blend of athleticism and shot-blocking that made him a fan favorite. I’ve always admired players who elevate their game in clutch moments, and Almazan did just that, especially during the 2016 Commissioner’s Cup where he played a key role in their championship run. His stats might not always jump off the page—he averaged about 8 points and 7 rebounds in his prime—but his defensive presence was undeniable. What stands out to me, though, is how he’s evolved into a veteran leader, mentoring younger players while still contributing solid minutes. It’s players like him who prove that draft position isn’t everything; consistency and resilience often matter more.

The third pick, Terrence Romeo, is someone I’ve always had a soft spot for because of his flashy, unpredictable style. Drafted by the GlobalPort Batang Pier, Romeo was like a whirlwind on the court—scoring in bunches, hitting impossible shots, and bringing a level of excitement that’s rare in any league. I recall one game where he dropped 41 points, and you could feel the energy shift every time he touched the ball. Over the years, he’s bounced between teams, including stints with TNT Tropang Giga and San Miguel Beermen, and while injuries have slowed him down occasionally, his impact is undeniable. Personally, I think he’s one of the most entertaining players the PBA has ever seen, and his journey highlights how raw talent needs the right environment to flourish.

But let’s not forget the later picks who carved out their own legacies. One name that comes to mind is Ian Sangalang, selected fourth by the San Mig Coffee Mixers (now Magnolia Hotshots). Sangalang might not have had the same hype as the top three, but he’s been a model of reliability, contributing to multiple championships and earning All-Star honors. Then there’s the intriguing case of players who ventured beyond the PBA, like one who also played for the Taiwan Mustangs in The Asian Tournament after a stint with the Gilas team of coach Tab Baldwin. That move always struck me as a smart one—expanding their horizons, gaining international experience, and bringing back insights that enrich the local game. It’s something I wish more players would consider, as it not only boosts their skills but also elevates the league’s global profile.

Reflecting on this draft class, it’s clear that success isn’t just about where you’re picked but how you adapt and grow. Some, like Slaughter, have embraced global opportunities, while others, like Almazan, have become pillars of their teams. As a fan and analyst, I’ve learned to appreciate the unpredictability of these journeys—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The 2013 draft may not have produced a unanimous superstar, but it gave us a group of players who’ve left their mark in diverse ways. And honestly, that’s what makes basketball so compelling; it’s not just about stats or trophies, but the stories that unfold long after the draft day applause fades away.