The imports for this upcoming tournament are as good as you can get. It is time to give our initial ranking! By the way, Justin Brownlee will not be available!
#12. Chris Ortiz (Blackwater Bossing)
Ortiz's recent stint in the FIBA World Cup and his performance in various international leagues, including Finland, Cyprus, and Denmark, underscore his versatility and adaptability. His addition to the Blackwater Bossing lineup introduces a seasoned player, poised to make a significant impact on the team. I do not think he has the pedigree to make a dent in the league.
#11. Venky Jois (NorthPort Batang Pier)
Hailing from Australia, Jois' extensive international experience, including stints in various countries and the G-League, bodes well for the NorthPort Batang Pier. As the first Australian-born import in the league's history, Jois's contributions will likely resonate beyond the court. But, I think he will not last long that much. Unless, Northport just want to pile-up losses.
#10. Thomas De Thaey (Terrafirma Dyip)
As the first Belgian-born player in the PBA, De Thaey's international journey across Europe contributes to the Terrafirma Dyip's diverse lineup. With a solid scoring record in the Euroleague, De Thaey's presence promises to add a competitive edge to the team's gameplay. He is a level higher than the last two imports but I am still doubtful if he will finish the tournament.
#9 Suleiman Braimoh (Meralco Bolts)
Braimoh, hailing from Nigeria, brings an impressive resume, having played across various leagues globally. His well-rounded experience signals adaptability and resilience, valuable attributes for the Meralco Bolts in their upcoming campaign. I am not sure if Meralco has enough playmaking to maximize Braimoh on offense. Defensively, he is nothing special. So, that make this choice questionable too.
#8 Tom Vodanovich (Converge FiberXers)
Vodanovich's brief appearance in the Governors' Cup demonstrated his scoring prowess, despite the FiberXers' early elimination. Originally eyed as Converge's primary import, contract obligations delayed his entry into the PBA. Finally joining the team, Vodanovich's full-season collaboration with coach Aldin Ayo brings a fresh dynamic to the FiberXers' gameplay.
Due to a good one game last season in the PBA, I put him at #8. But it will not be easy for him, knowing that he is one of the smallest import this year.
#7. Tyler Stone (San Miguel Beermen)
With an extensive international career spanning across numerous countries, Stone's experience adds depth and skill to the San Miguel Beermen. Having played for various teams worldwide, his contributions are set to bolster the Beermen's campaign.
#6. DaJuan Summers (Rain or Shine Elasto Painters)
With NBA experience and international stints in various countries, Summers brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. Despite being the oldest import among the new entrants, his seasoned gameplay and rich background add a valuable dynamic to the team's lineup. Age is the biggest reason why I put him in the middle of this ranking.
#5. Tony Bishop (Barangay Ginebra)
In a surprising twist, Bishop, previously the Meralco Bolts' import, now steps into the shoes of the provisionally-suspended Justin Brownlee. With experience across various international leagues, including Europe and Japan's B. League, Bishop brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the Barangay Ginebra squad.
#4. Johnathan Williams (Phoenix Super LPG)
Having played in the NBA and the G-League, Williams' experience on the court comes with an impressive resume. With stints in various international leagues, Williams is set to bring a competitive edge and dynamic gameplay to the Phoenix Super LPG, elevating the team's overall performance.
#3. Thomas Robinson (NLEX Road Warriors)
Despite not having played a single minute in the PBA, Robinson qualifies as a returnee. His initial stint with the San Miguel Beermen in the 2022-23 Commissioner's Cup was cut short due to back spasms, prompting his return to the US for treatment. The fifth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Robinson's extensive international experience promises a fresh start with the Road Warriors.
#2. Tyler Bey (Magnolia Hotshots)
Having played for the University of Colorado Buffaloes and making appearances in the NBA, Bey's versatile skill set positions him as a valuable asset for the Magnolia Hotshots. With international experience in the Israeli league, his addition adds depth to the team's roster. I can see him delivering one of the best defensive season ever in the history of the league.
#1. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (TNT Tropang Giga)
Hollis-Jefferson, known as 'RHJ', proved his mettle by leading the Tropang Giga to victory in last season's Governors' Cup. His subsequent role as a naturalized player for Jordan in the FIBA World Cup saw him record impressive averages, despite his team's winless performance. Returning to the Tropang Giga, Hollis-Jefferson is in prime form and won't have to contend with the fasting challenges he faced during the last Governors' Cup, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan.
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