The NCAA has long been a launchpad for PBA greats, producing the likes of Calvin Abueva, Robert Bolick, CJ Perez, Calvin Oftana and Scottie Thompson. Each of them sharpen their skills and harden their game in the collegiate league before eventually taking over in the PBA. Now, a new generation of NCAA standouts are ready to continue that tradition. From explosive scorers to reliable inside threats, the league is once again witnessing the rise of its next wave of superstars.
Justin Arana Converge FiberXers C (Arellano)
Justin Arana is clearly shaping up as a future star in the league. The former NCAA Defensive Player of the Year has lived up to the expectations, capturing Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season with Converge. Over his first three PBA seasons, he posted averages of 13.2 points on 54.6% shooting, along with 7.3 rebounds. Last season, he was a big reason why his team finished in third place in two conferences and consistently reached the quarterfinals. Now, in the Philippine Cup, Arana is having a career-best conference, averaging 19.2 points and 11.5 rebounds through his first four games.
Adrian Clarence Nocum Rain or Shine SF (Mapua)
Nocum played a significant role for the Cardinals team that reached the finals in NCAA Season 97. However, they were overpowered by Letran, led by Jeo Ambohot and Rhenz Abando with a 2-0 sweep. He later excelled in his lone season in the MPBL, earning Rookie of the Year honors. In his first two seasons with Rain or Shine, Nocum provided a lot of energy to the team, averaging 13.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.9 assists, earning his place in the Most Improved Player discussions. This conference, he’s off to an incredible start, putting up 17.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game.
Paolo Jose Hernandez Terrafirma Dyip SG (Mapua)
Hernandez was also a big part of the Mapua Cardinals team in Season 97 of the NCAA, alongside Nocum. With the departure of several key players, he’s become a major piece of the Terrafirma Dyip this conference, averaging 15.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 steals. He also had a breakout moment in their upset win over NLEX, posting 13 points, 7 rebounds and a game-changing 6 steals.
John Bryle Bahio NLEX Road Warriors PF (San Beda)
Bahio has long been known as a double-double machine since his NCAA days, where he earned a spot on the Mythical Team in Season 98. He’s carried that form into the PBA, showing steady and reliable impact in the paint. Last conference, he delivered multiple double-digit scoring outings while also racking up rebounds but this conference, he’s elevated his game even further, averaging 15.2 points on an efficient 60.4% shooting from two-point range, along with 8.8 rebounds per game. His best showing yet came against Blackwater, where he erupted for a career-high 23 points on 11-of-15 shooting to power his team to their third straight win.
John Matthew Bravo Terrafirma Dyip SF (Lyceum)
The 56th overall pick is proving that he belongs in the PBA. In just five games, he’s already turning heads with his performance. He recently earned Best Player of the Game honors in their upset win against NLEX and also recorded a monster double-double against Rain or Shine. He’s been one of the bright spots for the Dyip this conference, averaging 14.6 points and 8.4 rebounds.
Cade Flores Titan Ultra Giant Risers PF (Arellano)
Flores showed plenty of promise during his NCAA run, capturing the Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Mythical Team honors in Season 98. He kept his strong play going in the PBA, making an immediate impact in his rookie year by averaging 9.3 points on 63% shooting and 7.2 rebounds across two conferences. This conference, he’s been coming off the bench but remains a major contributor to the team.
Honorable Mentions:
Mark Louie Sangalang Terrafirma Dyip PF (Letran)
Fran Louie Yu Titan Ultra Giant Risers PG (Letran)
Peter Alfaro Magnolia Hotshots PG ( San Beda)
Kim Aurin TNT Tropang 5G SF (Perpetual)
JM Calma San Miguel Beermen C (San Sebastian)
