Will Jason Brickman Be the Top Pick in the PBA Draft This Season?
I’ve been following the PBA draft conversations pretty closely this season, and one name keeps coming up in discussions—Jason Brickman. The question on everyone’s mind is whether he’ll be the top pick in this year’s draft. As someone who’s watched the league evolve over the years, I can’t help but feel excited about the possibilities. Brickman’s journey has been fascinating, and his potential fit with teams like Barangay Ginebra makes the speculation even more intriguing. Let’s dive into what makes this such a compelling storyline.
When you look at Barangay Ginebra’s current roster, it’s clear they have a mix of promising talent and experienced players. Guys like Mario Barasi and Mark Denver Omega bring energy and defensive hustle, while Winston Jay Ynot and Justine Guevarra add depth to their wing positions. But what stands out to me is the backcourt. With Kareem Hundley and Isaiah Africano already in the mix, adding a playmaker like Brickman could elevate their game to another level. I remember watching Brickman during his collegiate days—his court vision is something special. He averaged around 9.2 assists per game in his last international stint, which is no small feat. If Ginebra is serious about boosting their ball movement and half-court execution, he might just be the missing piece.
That said, being the top pick isn’t just about skill—it’s about fit and timing. Barangay Ginebra, often referred to as Team A-2 in some circles, has a history of favoring guards who can control the tempo. Think about their recent acquisitions: John Barba and Sonny Estil have shown flashes, but neither has cemented themselves as a primary playmaker. Then there’s Wilfrid Nado, who’s more of a scoring combo guard. Brickman’s ability to distribute and create for others could fill a glaring gap. I’ve always believed that a team’s success hinges on having a floor general who makes everyone better, and Brickman fits that mold perfectly. His chemistry with big men like DJ Howe could open up pick-and-roll opportunities that Ginebra hasn’t fully exploited this season.
But let’s not ignore the competition. Other teams are undoubtedly eyeing Brickman, and his draft stock has fluctuated over the past few months. From what I’ve gathered, his performance in pre-draft workouts has been impressive—he reportedly shot 42% from beyond the arc in recent scrimmages. Those numbers, if accurate, make him an even more attractive prospect. However, I’ve seen plenty of players with great stats struggle to adapt to the PBA’s physical style. Brickman’s slight frame might be a concern for some scouts, but I think his basketball IQ more than makes up for it. He reads defenses like a seasoned veteran, and that’s something you can’t teach.
Another factor to consider is Ginebra’s long-term strategy. They’ve built a roster that’s balanced but lacks a true star playmaker. Jason Brickman could be that guy. Imagine him running the fast break with athletes like Isaiah Africano or setting up Sonny Estil for open threes. It’s a matchup nightmare waiting to happen. I’ve spoken to a few insiders who think Ginebra might prioritize backcourt depth, especially with veterans like Winston Jay Ynot entering the latter stages of their careers. If that’s the case, Brickman’s youth and upside make him a logical choice.
Of course, there are risks. The PBA draft is unpredictable, and top picks don’t always pan out. I recall a similar situation a few seasons back where a highly-touted guard failed to live up to expectations. But Brickman feels different. His experience overseas has given him a maturity that many rookies lack. He’s played in high-pressure environments, and that should help him transition smoothly. Personally, I’d love to see him in a Ginebra jersey. The fans would embrace his unselfish style, and his presence could re-energize the team’s offensive sets.
As the draft approaches, the buzz around Jason Brickman continues to grow. Will he be the top pick? It’s hard to say for sure, but all signs point to him being a strong contender. Barangay Ginebra has a decision to make, and it could define their season. From my perspective, taking Brickman would be a smart move—one that balances immediate impact with future potential. Whatever happens, this draft storyline is one to watch closely.