Yeng Guiao, Tim Cone express concerns over lack of size in 2025 PBA Rookie Draft

The 2025 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft is just five days away, with the final list of 128 hopefuls set to be deliberated by the league’s franchises ahead of the historic 50th season.

Among the coaches, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters head coach Yeng Guiao is in a unique position as the only mentor holding two first-round picks—No. 10 and No. 12. The Elasto Painters acquired the additional pick after trading Henry Galinato and Jewel Ponferada to TNT Tropang Giga earlier this year.

However, Guiao struck a cautious note, pointing out a lack of frontcourt talent in the current draft pool.

“Not too much size in this draft pool. It doesn’t look as deep as last year, but there are diamonds in the rough, especially if you’re looking for guards or wings. The problem is, we already have too many guards and wings. There just aren’t many options for bigs,” Guiao said during a media session.

The lack of size poses a challenge for Rain or Shine, whose roster is already stocked with young talent in the guard and wing positions. A dependable big man remains a pressing need.

Full list of players who submitted their applications for the PBA Rookie Draft slated Sept. 7 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall (Courtesy of PBA) @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/H9Ox1B9Hbh

— Jonas Terrado (@jonasterradoINQ) August 29, 2025

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel head coach Tim Cone faces a similar dilemma. While the Gin Kings hold the 11th overall pick as well as the first pick of the second round, Cone continues to lean heavily on Japeth Aguilar, who turns 38 this year, with Isaac Go’s return from injury still uncertain.

Asked about his draft outlook, Cone admitted he has his eyes on big men like Geo Chiu and Will Gozum, though he tempered expectations.

“Not sure, but hopeful. I don’t want to show our hand, but quality big men are always a scarce commodity in the draft,” Cone said.

Meanwhile, NLEX Road Warriors head coach Jong Uichico offered a broader perspective, noting that this year’s class is balanced even if size remains at a premium.

“This draft pool has a lot of quality players and average size for every position,” Uichico said.

The 2025 PBA Rookie Draft takes place on Sunday, September 7, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. Before that, the PBA Draft Combine is scheduled for September 4 and 5 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, giving coaches and scouts one last chance to evaluate the country’s top prospects.

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