PBA Draft List 2016: Complete Player Selections and Team Breakdowns

Looking back at the 2016 PBA Draft, I still get that familiar buzz of anticipation—the kind that only comes when you know a draft class could reshape franchises for years to come. I’ve followed the PBA long enough to recognize turning points, and this draft was one of them. It wasn’t just about the big names at the top; it was the depth, the surprises, and those under-the-radar picks that made it memorable. Teams weren’t just filling roster spots—they were making statements. And as someone who’s analyzed drafts for over a decade, I can tell you: this one had a little bit of everything.

Let’s start with the obvious—the first round. Christian Standhardinger going first overall to San Miguel wasn’t exactly a shock, but the ripple effect was fascinating. At 6’8”, he brought a mix of size and mobility that you don’t see every day in the league. But what really stood out to me was how teams approached the guard positions. Kiefer Ravena, picked second by NLEX, felt like a steal even that early. His court vision and leadership were already pro-ready, and I remember thinking he’d elevate that team’s backcourt from day one. Then there was Raymar Jose, a workhorse forward who landed at Alaska. His energy on the boards was something I’d admired since his collegiate days—a relentless style that doesn’t always show up in stats but absolutely impacts winning.

Now, when we talk about value picks, Northport’s selection of Chris Koon in the fourth round stands out in my mind. I’ll be honest—I didn’t see that one coming. Koon wasn’t the flashiest name in the pool, but Northport clearly saw something they could develop. At 6’3”, he offered versatility—a wing who could defend multiple positions and knock down open shots when needed. I remember watching him in pre-draft workouts and thinking he had that quiet, steady game that could flourish in the right system. Did he become a superstar? No, but not every pick has to. Sometimes, it’s about finding reliable role players, and Chris brought exactly that. In a league where chemistry matters as much as talent, picks like his often fly under the radar but end up contributing in meaningful ways.

Beyond the early rounds, the draft had its share of intriguing stories. Jason Perkins going to Phoenix was another move I liked—a tough, modern forward who could stretch the floor and defend. And then there were the guys who slipped a bit, like Robbie Herndon, who eventually showed he belonged. I’ve always believed the second round is where scouts earn their pay, and this draft proved it. Teams like Rain or Shine and Magnolia found rotation players late, which speaks to their preparation. From my perspective, that’s what separates well-run organizations from the rest—they don’t just focus on the headlines.

Of course, not every selection panned out as hoped. A couple of players struggled to find their footing or fit, which is always part of the gamble. But overall, the 2016 class brought in around 28 new players, and a good number of them are still contributing today. That’s a solid hit rate in my book. When I reflect on it now, what stands out is how teams balanced immediate needs with long-term potential. Some went for experience, others for upside—and that tension is what makes draft night so compelling.

In the end, the 2016 PBA Draft wasn’t just a list of names—it was a snapshot of each team’s vision. Whether it was Northport betting on Chris Koon’s understated game or NLEX building around Ravena’s star power, every choice told a story. Years later, we can look back and see which bets paid off. For me, this draft reinforced something I’ve always believed: success isn’t just about landing the top pick—it’s about seeing value where others might not. And honestly, that’s why I never get tired of draft season.