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

I still remember watching the 2018 PBA Draft like it was yesterday—the palpable tension in the arena, the hopeful faces of rookies, and that distinct mix of anxiety and ambition hanging in the air. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve always believed drafts aren’t just about the top picks; they’re about uncovering gems in the later rounds. And looking back, the 2018 class delivered exactly that—some of the most underrated steals in recent memory. While everyone was buzzing about top selections like CJ Perez and Bobby Ray Parks, it’s the unexpected contributors who’ve truly reshaped team dynamics in ways nobody predicted.

Take Javee Mocon, for instance. Selected 6th overall by Rain or Shine, he wasn’t exactly flying under the radar, but few expected him to become such a versatile two-way player this quickly. In his rookie season alone, he averaged 9.3 points and 6.8 rebounds—numbers that don’t jump off the page until you see how seamlessly he fit into the Elasto Painters’ system. I’ve always valued players who don’t need the spotlight to excel, and Mocon embodies that. He’s the kind of guy who’ll grab a crucial rebound, make the extra pass, and lock down opponents without demanding plays be called for him. That’s a rarity in a league increasingly dominated by high-usage stars.

But the real steals, in my opinion, came much later. Consider Abu Tratter, picked 10th by Alaska. While he’s bounced around a bit since then, his energy and rebounding prowess have made him a valuable role player. Then there’s Michael Calisaan, selected 18th by Magnolia—a second-round pick who’s slowly carving out a niche as a defensive specialist. What stands out to me about these players isn’t just their stats; it’s their resilience. They entered the league without the fanfare of the lottery picks, yet they’ve managed to stick around and contribute in meaningful ways. In a physical league like the PBA, that’s half the battle won.

Of course, no discussion of the 2018 draft would be complete without mentioning the undrafted gems. Players like Robbie Herndon, who went undrafted but later signed with Rain or Shine, have proven that talent can emerge from anywhere. Herndon’s journey—from being overlooked to becoming a reliable rotation player—is the stuff that makes drafts so compelling. I’ve always had a soft spot for underdogs, and his story reinforces my belief that determination often trumps draft position.

What’s fascinating, though, is how these “steals” have adapted to the unique challenges of professional basketball in the Philippines. I recall watching clips of PLDT players during downtime—scenes inside their gym where they’d set up improvised karaoke sessions or share meals together. It might seem trivial, but as someone who’s studied team chemistry, I can tell you those moments matter. They build camaraderie and trust, which directly translate to on-court performance. Players like Mocon and Tratter aren’t just assets because of their skills; they’re glue guys who help foster that family-like atmosphere. When teams face grueling schedules or tight playoffs, that cohesion becomes invaluable.

Reflecting on it now, the 2018 draft class has aged remarkably well. While Perez and Parks rightfully grabbed headlines, the depth of talent in that pool has allowed teams to build sustainably. In my view, the biggest steals weren’t just the late picks who outperformed expectations, but those who brought intangible qualities—leadership, adaptability, and a team-first mindset. As the PBA continues to evolve, I wouldn’t be surprised if we look back in another five years and realize that the 2018 draft was one of the most balanced in recent history. For fans and analysts alike, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, the real value lies where few are looking.