PBA enforces no-trade rule for No. 1 draft picks starting Season 50

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has approved a new rule that prohibits the trade of the No. 1 overall pick for his first two full seasons in the league, a move seen as a safeguard to ensure stability and integrity in the draft process.

The league’s board of governors passed the measure in a recent meeting, with teams already notified through an official memorandum. Sources confirmed that the rule takes effect immediately, starting with Season 50.

As a result, Terrafirma’s top overall pick Geo Chiu becomes the first player to be covered by the mandate. The 6-foot-9 big man is guaranteed to stay with the Dyip through the league’s 50th and 51st seasons, eliminating the possibility of a midseason deal or a quick exit to another franchise.

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.

GEO CHUI AS TOP 1 PICK

Napili si Geo Chui ng Terrafirma bilang Round 1 No. 1 Pick ng PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft ngayong Linggo, Sept. 7. | via One Sports pic.twitter.com/h6DJgLoMgq

— News5 (@News5PH) September 7, 2025

The decision comes after years of criticism surrounding the handling of top draft choices, particularly when they were moved just months after being selected. Fans have long expressed frustration that the league’s prized rookies rarely stayed with their drafting teams, fueling perceptions of lopsided trades.

Among the most recent cases was Stephen Holt, whom Terrafirma drafted No. 1 in Season 48. Holt never suited up for the Dyip as he was dealt to Barangay Ginebra before the start of Season 49.

Before that, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, the No. 1 pick by Blackwater in 2022 (Season 47), was traded to NLEX just four months after the draft. Joshua Munzon, Terrafirma’s top pick in Season 46, also didn’t last long with the team as he was shipped to NorthPort midway through his second season.

By implementing the no-trade clause for top overall picks, the PBA hopes to encourage parity and give drafting teams a genuine chance to develop their young stars while also restoring fan confidence in the process. 

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!