Looking Back at the 2010 PBA Draft Pick: Where Are They Now?

Looking back at the 2010 PBA Draft feels like flipping through an old basketball yearbook where every page holds a story of what could have been. I remember watching that draft with a mix of anticipation and skepticism—the kind of feeling you get when you know some players will become household names while others might fade into obscurity. Over a decade later, it’s fascinating to see how their careers have unfolded, especially when you consider moments like LA Tenorio’s unforgettable three-pointer in Game 7 of the all-Filipino semifinals, a shot that sealed an 88-87 Ginebra win and sent ripples through the league. That game, played at the Big Dome with just 3.1 seconds left on the clock, wasn’t just a highlight reel moment; it was a testament to how draft picks from years prior could shape pivotal games. As someone who’s followed the PBA closely since the late 2000s, I’ve seen how draft classes like this one set the stage for dynasties and disappointments alike, and the 2010 group is no exception. Let’s dive into where these players are now, reflecting on their journeys with a blend of data, personal observations, and a touch of nostalgia.

The 2010 draft was headlined by names like Rabeh Al-Hussaini, who went first overall to Air21, and Nonoy Baclao, picked second by the same team. At the time, I thought Al-Hussaini had the potential to be a dominant big man—his college stats at Ateneo were impressive, averaging around 16.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in his final UAAP season. But fast forward to today, and his career hasn’t quite lived up to the hype. He bounced between teams, including stints with Ginebra and Meralco, and by 2018, he was playing in regional leagues overseas. It’s a classic case of early promise not translating to sustained success, and I can’t help but feel a bit disappointed because he had the tools to be a star. On the other hand, Baclao, known for his defensive prowess, carved out a solid role as a reliable role player, eventually winning championships with teams like San Miguel. He’s one of those guys who might not grab headlines but contributes in ways that stats don’t always capture—think of him as the glue guy who helps in tight situations, much like how Tenorio’s clutch shooting in that 2014 semifinals game underscored the value of veteran presence.

Then there’s John Wilson, picked fourth by B-Meg, who had a rollercoaster career marked by flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. I recall watching him drop 30-point games and thinking he could be a scoring machine, but injuries and roster shifts limited his impact. By 2020, he was playing in the MPBL, and while he’s still active, it’s a far cry from the PBA limelight. Contrast that with someone like Allein Maliksi, selected 10th by Barako Bull, who evolved into a dependable scorer and even won a Finals MVP in the 2021 season. Maliksi’s journey is a reminder that draft position isn’t everything; it’s about adaptability and seizing opportunities. I’ve always admired players like him who grind their way up, and it’s no surprise he’s still relevant today, contributing to teams like Meralco. Speaking of grind, let’s not forget the later picks, like Rey Guevarra at 12th, who became known for his athleticism but never quite broke out as a star. He retired in 2019, and from what I’ve heard, he’s now involved in coaching youth leagues—a path many ex-players take to stay connected to the game.

What strikes me most about this draft class is how it intersected with key league moments, like that epic Game 7 I mentioned earlier. The winner of that series only had four days to prepare for the finals starting that Sunday, which put immense pressure on teams built around draft picks from years like 2010. For instance, Ginebra’s roster included veterans who had been drafted around that time, and their experience shone through in high-stakes games. It’s a testament to how draft investments pay off over time, even if not immediately. From a data perspective, if I had to crunch numbers, I’d estimate that around 60% of the 2010 draftees remained in the PBA for at least five years, with roughly 25% becoming All-Stars—though these are rough figures based on my tracking, as official stats can be spotty. Personally, I think the draft’s legacy is mixed; it produced a few gems but also highlighted the risks of overhyping prospects. I’ve always leaned toward valuing intangibles like leadership, which is why I rate players like Tenorio (drafted earlier in 2006 but influencing this era) higher than pure scorers.

As we wrap up, it’s clear that the 2010 PBA Draft class is a mosaic of what-ifs and success stories. Some players, like Maliksi, are still making waves, while others have moved on to life after basketball. Reflecting on it all, I can’t help but appreciate how these journeys mirror the unpredictability of the sport itself—full of dramatic turns, just like that last-second three-pointer in the Big Dome. For fans and analysts like me, it’s a reminder to cherish the moments and not get too caught up in draft day hype. After all, careers are built over years, not in a single pick. If you ask me, the 2010 group might not be the most glamorous, but it sure gave us plenty to talk about, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on who stood out the most.