PBA Mock Draft: Is the NU Superstar a potential #1 pick?

 John Lloyd Clemente bids farewell to National University (NU) as he sets his sights on his professional basketball career in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL). The NU men's basketball veteran has chosen to forgo his final season of eligibility in the UAAP, confirming his decision to Rappler on June 8.

Clemente, the leading scorer for NU in UAAP Season 85, revealed that he plans to join the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the MPBL while he considers his options. He aims to showcase his skills and attract the attention of teams in Japan, Korea, or Taiwan, with hopes of securing an overseas offer. Additionally, Clemente mentioned that joining the PBA Draft is also on the table.

Expressing his readiness for the next level, Clemente emphasized that it's the right time to turn professional. He mentioned that he is waiting for an offer overseas but is excited to play with the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the meantime. He is set to debut in the third week of June.

The decision was met with mixed emotions from Clemente, as NU has been his home and comfort zone throughout his basketball journey. However, he also expressed excitement about reuniting with Justine Baltazar, his former teammate from NU's high school program, and representing their hometown in the MPBL under Governor Delta.

During his time in the UAAP, Clemente showcased his skills as a mid-range shooter, averaging a team-high 10.5 points along with 4.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game last season. He maintained shooting percentages of 36% from the field, 47% from inside the arc, and 77% from the free-throw line.

Clemente's teammates and coaches at NU are supportive of his decision and look forward to his future endeavors. His basketball journey began with the NU Bullpups, where he and Baltazar led the team to a championship in 2016 before taking separate paths in their collegiate careers.

As Clemente embarks on his professional basketball journey, he aims to continue honing his skills and making an impact in the MPBL while exploring opportunities abroad.

Is he a potential #1 pick?

I doubt it because his production in UAAP was not as flamboyant as the other aspiring #1 pick. Nevertheless, he has the name value to be taken as early as the #4 pick.