Aspiring Pros Set Sights on PBA as 2025 Draft Nears

Architect Rey Punongbayan of Punongbayan Ponceja Basketball Management has confirmed that eight of his players have officially declared for the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft, set for September 7. Representing a wide spectrum of experience—from MPBL stars and UAAP standouts to international collegiate talent—this group enters the draft pool with varied but compelling basketball pedigrees.

Among them is LJ Gonzales, a proven floor general who wrapped up a strong UAAP career with FEU before suiting up for the Quezon Huskers in the MPBL. He recently delivered a clutch fourth-quarter performance to help Quezon edge San Juan, further cementing his reputation as a reliable closer. With a Mythical Five nod in UAAP Season 86 and solid MPBL numbers, Gonzales brings leadership and composure to the table.

Another promising big man in the draft is Mario Barasi, a 6-foot-7 forward-center who most recently played for Basilan in the MPBL. Previously part of Adamson’s and Perpetual’s systems, Barasi offers size, length, and potential on both ends of the floor. His physical profile makes him an intriguing long-term project for teams looking to develop frontcourt depth.

Also making his professional push is Royce Mantua, a Filipino-Australian wing who started his UAAP career at UST before transferring to Adamson. Known for his defensive energy and growing confidence as a scorer, Mantua had several key outings last season, including an 11-point performance against his former team. He officially ended his college eligibility earlier this year to turn pro.

Reggz Gabat of San Sebastian adds to the group with a story rooted in resilience. After being cut from the lineup in Season 98, he returned with purpose and became a dependable contributor by Season 100. He averaged nearly eight points per game and delivered an eye-catching 18-point performance against San Beda. His ability to overcome setbacks and produce when it counts adds grit to his profile.

From the MPBL ranks, Joshua Yerro brings big-game experience and athletic finishing. The former Adamson captain made headlines last year with a buzzer-beating alley-oop against NU, a moment that captured his timing and composure under pressure. Now suiting up for the Quezon Huskers, Yerro continues to be a key rotational piece in a team that’s contending in the South Division.

John Matthew Manalang, a 6-foot-5 forward who previously suited up for the University of the East, is also among the declared applicants. While flying under the radar during his college career, Manalang possesses a physical frame and positional versatility that teams may be eager to explore in pre-draft workouts.

Two international guards round out the pool. Isaiah Africano, a 6-foot-2 guard from Pacific University in Oregon, had a highly efficient senior campaign, shooting over 65 percent from the field while providing steady contributions off the bench. Born in Hawaii, Africano briefly entered the 2024 NBA Draft and now shifts his sights toward a career in the PBA.

Wilfrid Nado, a California-based point guard, also makes his entry. After leading Santa Barbara City College in minutes and assists and earning First Team All-Conference honors, Nado transferred to Pacific University, where his minutes were limited but his role as a communicator and setup man remained evident. His JUCO experience and basketball IQ provide a solid base for further development.

Punongbayan expressed full confidence in the group’s readiness. “Each of these young men took a different path, but they share the same fire,” he said. “They’re ready for the PBA.”

As the September 7 draft approaches, these eight players—each with a different story, but the same destination in mind—join a class that’s as competitive as any in recent years. Whether coming from the UAAP, NCAA, MPBL, or overseas, they now await their shot at the next level.