Predicting the Future: Ranking the Top 3 Candidates for 2026 PBA Rookie of the Year
The 2025 PBA Draft was not a star-studded affair, but it was rich with potential for teams willing to take a chance on a player. The coming PBA season will be a golden opportunity for many of these rookies to prove their worth, and for some, it will be a chance to earn the coveted Rookie of the Year award. The award is usually given to the rookie who is the most productive and has the biggest impact on their team. So, opportunity is a big factor. Here are the top three candidates for the 2026 PBA Rookie of the Year award.
3. Chris Koon (NorthPort Batang Pier)
Chris Koon, the fourth overall pick in the draft, has a great chance to have a productive rookie season. With NorthPort Batang Pier, soon to be known as Pureblends, undergoing a major rebranding, the team is likely to have a new offensive focus. Koon, a 6-foot-4 wing with a good shooting stroke and a high basketball IQ, has the skillset to be a big factor on their offense. He is a versatile player who can score, rebound, and defend, which will make him a valuable asset for a team that is in need of a new identity. With the expected departure of some of the team's veterans, Koon will have a great opportunity to get consistent playing time and put up big numbers.
2. Juan Gomez de Liaño (Converge FiberXers)
Juan Gomez de Liaño, the second overall pick, is a top-tier talent with a lot of international experience. Converge is confident about his abilities, but his path to the Rookie of the Year award could be a difficult one. The FiberXers already have a deep guard rotation with the likes of Alec Stockton, Schonny Winston, and potentially Mikey Williams. It could be hard for him to get enough opportunity to showcase his full skillset. However, if he can quickly adapt to the PBA's style of play and earn a consistent spot in the rotation, his talent could catapult him to the top of the Rookie of the Year race.
1. Jason Brickman (Meralco Bolts)
The top candidate for the 2026 PBA Rookie of the Year award is none other than Jason Brickman. The 33-year-old guard was picked seventh overall by Meralco, a team that has a deep point guard rotation with Chris Newsome and Chris Banchero. However, Brickman is a unique player. He is a superb passing point guard who is one of only four NCAA Division I players to record 1,000 career assists. His passing ability could be a refreshing change for Meralco, and it could catapult him to a consistent role and a productive rookie season. He is a player who can make his teammates better, and in a league that is starving for good point guards, his value is immense. With his age and experience, he is also a low-risk, high-reward pick who can contribute immediately. If he can stay healthy and be productive, he will be a strong contender for the award.
Related Article: 2025 PBA Draft Analysis: Top 5 Draft Steals!
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