Filipino basketball star Juan Gomez de Liano considers joining PBA Rookie Draft after overseas stints

Filipino basketball star Juan Gomez de Liano has opened the door to finally playing in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), revealing that he is considering entering his name in the upcoming 2025 PBA Rookie Draft.

The former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout is currently back in the Philippines following his stint with the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League (KBL). On Sunday, August 24, he suited up in an exhibition game at the Pilipinas United 3×3 League (PUL), where he spoke about his future.

“I’m not sure yet, honestly. Still weighing my options. But entering the PBA is definitely a possibility,” said De Liano. “My family and I have been thinking about whether it’s the best step for me. For now, I’m just spending time with them and staying in shape.”

A CHILDHOOD DREAM 🏀

Juan Gomez de Liaño is mulling over entering the #PBADraft, a dream he and his family are considering as his next career move, while also looking forward to the chance of playing with or against his brother Javi. | via Luisa Morales#PBA50 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/lbjKxTCyoA

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 24, 2025

The 25-year-old, who has competed in 3×3 basketball since his youth, expressed joy in returning to play the format on home soil.

“It’s always nice to be here, to be part of this event. Playing 3×3 basketball in the Philippines is special because everyone loves the game. I’m just happy to be here,” he added.

The 2025 PBA Rookie Draft is set for September 7, with August 29 as the deadline for applicants.

“If I ever enter the draft, it would be a dream come true. Growing up here, I was always watching the PBA,” De Liano said.

After concluding his UAAP career, De Liano initially passed on the PBA, instead playing in the Dubai International Basketball Tournament, the PBA D-League, and the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) in 2021 with the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards.

Later that year, he signed with Earthfriends Tokyo Z in Japan’s B2 League, followed by a stint with BC Wolves in the Lithuanian Basketball League. His most recent professional run came with Seoul SK Knights in Korea, before being released on May 30, 2025, after the team acquired fellow Filipino Arvin Tolentino.

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