As I sit here watching the Rain or Shine-TNT semifinal series unfold, I can't help but think about how this PBA season could impact one of the most intriguing draft prospects in recent memory—Andre Paras. The basketball world is buzzing with speculation about whether the son of PBA legend Benjie Paras will hear his name called in the upcoming draft, and I've been following this storyline with particular interest given my two decades covering Philippine basketball. Let me share some insights I've gathered from talking to scouts, coaches, and league insiders about his prospects.
Rain or Shine's current playoff situation actually provides an interesting backdrop to the Andre Paras discussion. The Elasto Painters trail TNT 2-1 in their best-of-seven series, but they're looking to level things up in Wednesday's Game 4 at the Mall of Asia Arena. This context matters because team needs following these playoffs will significantly impact draft decisions. I've noticed that teams making deep playoff runs often approach the draft differently—they're either looking for immediate contributors or future projects depending on how their current roster performs under pressure. From what I've observed, Rain or Shine's performance in these playoffs could influence their draft strategy, and potentially create an opportunity for someone like Paras.
Now, let's talk about Andre's actual basketball credentials. Having watched him develop from his high school days at UPIS to his college career with the UP Fighting Maroons and now in the PBA D-League, I've seen both flashes of brilliance and areas that need work. His statistics in the PBA D-League have been decent—he averaged around 12.8 points and 9.2 rebounds in his last campaign with AMA Online Education. Those aren't eye-popping numbers, but they show he can compete at that level. What impresses me most isn't reflected in the stat sheet though—it's his basketball IQ and understanding of positioning, traits he undoubtedly inherited from his father. I've spoken with several scouts who believe his defensive timing and shot-blocking instinct are actually more advanced than his father's were at the same age.
The physical tools are certainly there. Standing at 6'5" with a wingspan measuring approximately 6'10", Paras has the frame that PBA teams covet for either the power forward or center position depending on the system. During combine measurements last month, his vertical leap was recorded at 28 inches—not elite, but certainly serviceable for someone his size. Where I think he needs immediate improvement is his lateral quickness, as modern PBA offenses often force big men to switch onto smaller, quicker guards. I've watched him struggle in those situations during D-League games, and that's something NBA-bound Kai Sotto exploited when they matched up last season.
Team needs will ultimately determine Paras' draft fate, and this is where the ongoing playoffs become relevant. Based on my conversations with team officials, I'd estimate there's about a 65% chance he gets drafted, likely in the second round. Teams like Blackwater, Terrafirma, and NorthPort have expressed interest, with Blackwater apparently most keen according to my sources. What gives Paras an edge, in my opinion, is his marketability—the Paras name carries weight with Filipino basketball fans, and teams recognize the commercial value he brings beyond just on-court production. Let's be honest here—in a league where business considerations sometimes influence basketball decisions, that factor can't be ignored.
I remember talking to his father Benjie about Andre's development last year, and the pride in his voice was palpable. The elder Paras acknowledged that his son faces different pressures than he did coming up, with social media scrutiny and heightened expectations simply because of his famous last name. From what I've observed, Andre has handled this pressure remarkably well—he's shown maturity in interviews and seems to understand that he needs to carve his own path rather than simply emulate his father's legendary career.
The timing of this draft is particularly interesting given the PBA's transition toward a more modern style of play. Teams are increasingly valuing big men who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions—skills that aren't necessarily Paras' strengths at the moment. His three-point shooting hovers around 28% based on the last available data, which needs improvement if he wants consistent minutes in today's PBA. However, I've noticed his mid-range game has developed nicely, and his footwork in the post is more polished than many give him credit for.
What might work in Paras' favor is that this draft class isn't particularly deep in frontcourt talent after the obvious top picks. Teams looking for big men in the later rounds might view him as a worthwhile project. I'm told by a scout friend that at least three teams have him on their draft board, with one franchise reportedly giving him a second-round grade. The general consensus seems to be that he'd benefit from immediate PBA exposure rather than additional time in developmental leagues.
Having watched countless draft prospects come and go over the years, I'd put the probability of Paras getting drafted at about 60-40 in favor. If I were a betting man—and I'm not, given my profession—I'd wager he gets selected somewhere between picks 15 and 25. The ideal situation, in my view, would be for him to land with a team that has a strong developmental program and patient coaching staff. A franchise like Rain or Shine, known for nurturing young talent, could be perfect if they decide to use one of their later picks on him.
As Wednesday's crucial Game 4 approaches, I'll be watching not just the playoff drama but also how teams might be evaluating their future needs. The outcome of these playoffs often reshapes draft strategies in unexpected ways. Whatever happens, Andre Paras' journey to the PBA represents one of the more compelling narratives of this draft season—a talented player carrying a famous name, trying to prove he belongs on his own terms. The basketball purist in me hopes he gets his opportunity, while the realist understands that nothing in the PBA draft is guaranteed. One thing I'm certain of—come draft day, all eyes will be on whether the Paras legacy continues in the professional ranks.
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