PBA tightens Rookie Draft rules, bars prospects with active contracts from other leagues

The PBA is drawing a firmer line between commitment and opportunity as it moves to overhaul one of the long-standing gray areas in its Rookie Draft process.

League commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that the PBA Board of Governors has approved a new policy barring players with active contracts in other professional leagues from entering the Rookie Draft. The ruling will officially take effect in the Season 51 Rookie Draft scheduled for early 2027.

The decision is designed to address recurring issues that have disrupted team planning and player availability, particularly in recent seasons when several drafted rookies were unable to suit up right away.

“Draftees should no longer have contracts from other leagues, so that you’ll get to play once you’re drafted,” Marcial said in Filipino, as quoted on the PBA’s official website.

The move comes after multiple teams were forced to wait on their draft picks during the current season. Players such as NLEX rookies L-Jay Gonzales and JL Capulong, along with Rain or Shine’s Christian Manaytay, had to complete their MPBL obligations before making their PBA debuts.

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Disallowing rookie prospects with live contracts to enter the PBA draft is a positive rule change by the PBA board. This would make Mpbl signees adjust their contracts to align with the PBA draft schedule.

Or, some guys could delay their PBA entry to fulfill their Mpbl deals.

— PBA insider (@PBAinsider) January 20, 2026

The situation was even more pronounced for Terrafirma top overall pick Geo Chiu and Meralco’s seventh selection Jason Brickman. Both were unavailable for the Philippine Cup as they remained committed to Abra’s MPBL campaign — a run that ended with a dominant championship.

For the league, the new rule represents a push toward clarity and fairness. Teams investing draft capital will now have greater assurance that their selections can contribute immediately, while players will be required to make a clearer decision about where they want to begin their professional careers.

Importantly, the policy does not affect players coming from the collegiate ranks. NCAA prospects, in particular, remain eligible to enter the PBA Draft even while their school seasons are ongoing, consistent with existing league rules.

By closing the door on dual-league commitments, the PBA hopes to streamline its transition process for rookies — ensuring that when names are called on draft day, jerseys won’t have to wait long to hit the court.

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