Juan Gomez de Liano emerging as clear favorite in PBA Season 50 Draft

With 128 names in the pool for the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft this Sunday, September 7, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall, one prospect stands out above the rest: Juan Gomez de Liano.

The former University of the Philippines standout is widely regarded as the clear favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick, with scouts and analysts pointing to his status as the most PBA-ready talent in this year’s draft class.

Gomez de Liano was a key figure in the Fighting Maroons’ historic UAAP runs, where his dynamic style of play helped end UP’s long Final Four drought in 2018 and eventually push the team to a Finals appearance in 2019. 

He earned Mythical Team honors in Season 81 and built a reputation as one of the most exciting collegiate guards of his generation.

Known for his scoring bursts, slick handles, and playmaking ability, he became one of the most exciting guards in collegiate hoops before embarking on a journeyman career overseas.

After his UAAP stint, Gomez de Liano carved a unique career path, suiting up overseas in various stints. He played for Earthfriends Tokyo Z in Japan’s B.League and later saw action in Lithuania, Thailand, and most recently, in the Korean Basketball League.

ANOTHER JUAN

Juan Gomez de Liaño is ready to take the next step in his career, formally declaring for the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft after four years abroad.#PBA50 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/yVDCGiamF8

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 26, 2025

At 24, Gomez de Liano brings a blend of scoring ability, ball-handling, and playmaking that makes him a plug-and-play option for any team. 

He thrives in big moments, can create his own shot, and has shown the ability to adapt to multiple systems — qualities that make him not just a promising rookie, but an instant franchise cornerstone.

Mock drafts have consistently projected him at the top of the board, with many expecting Terrafirma to grab him with the first overall pick. If not, another team is bound to seize the opportunity, leaving the Dyip second-guessing a missed chance.

For a league celebrating its 50th season, Gomez de Liano’s arrival comes at the perfect time — a young guard ready to take on the spotlight and potentially redefine the fortunes of whichever franchise takes a chance on him.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.