MANILA – Former Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles center Isaac Go will banner the Gilas Pilipinas special draft during the 2019 PBA Rookie Draft this Sunday at the Robinson’s Place in Ermita, Manila.
Aside from Go, four other names chosen by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the PBA were former Blue Eagles’ Matt and Mike Nieto, Allyn Bulanadi and Rey Suerte.
Selecting the rights of the five incoming rookies were the Columbian Dyip, Blackwater Elite, NLEX Road Warriors, Alaska Aces and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in that order.
The Gilas special draft, which was held for the first time after three years, was the PBA’s way of helping the national men’s basketball team to prepare for the 2023 FIBA World Cup to be held in the country.
SBP and PBA have also agreed to have the same special draft during next year’s rookie selection. As per the deal, the players will be suiting up for their squads but will be released to the national team if needed.
After the special draft, the regular draft will proceed with the teams picking from the 66 aspirants. Dyip will once again select first followed by the Elite, Road Warriors, Aces and Painters.
The Painters will have two more selections after that followed by NorthPort Batang Pier, Magnolia Hotshots, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings, TNT KaTropa and the Dyip to conclude the first round./PN
