PBA respects UAAP’s refusal to allow college athletes in 2025 Rookie Draft

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) recently sought permission from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) to allow collegiate players to join the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft 2025, even as the UAAP season continues.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed he sent a formal letter to the UAAP Board of Managing Directors, noting that the Rookie Draft and the opening of Season 88 are set for next month. Marcial assured that players selected in the draft would still be able to finish their collegiate commitments before reporting to their PBA teams.

However, the UAAP, led by executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag, politely declined the request, citing potential implications for all sporting programs under the league.

UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag says the league denied the PBA’s request to let players join the Season 50 Rookie Draft before Season 88 starts. The PBA wanted student-athletes to apply for the Draft without losing their eligibility.#StrengthInMotion #HopeInAction pic.twitter.com/lulvaAyWS9

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 27, 2025

“We have to politely decline, at least for this season. While we recognize the benefits for student-athletes, any decision we make applies to all events in the UAAP, not just basketball. There are broader implications,” Saguisag said.

Marcial accepted the UAAP’s decision, noting the importance of consistent regulations across all sports. “We need to carefully study the implications, not just for basketball but for all sporting events in the future. The UAAP’s stance is clear, and we understand their position,” he said.

The decision does not prevent athletes from entering the PBA Draft, but those who do so must forfeit their remaining collegiate eligibility. “It’s their choice. But joining the draft means they forego their eligibility under current rules,” Saguisag explained.

The UAAP has forwarded the PBA’s request to its Sports and Eligibility Committee for further review.

The PBA Season 50 Draft is scheduled for September 7 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City. The two-day Draft Combine will take place on September 4 and 5 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

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