Juan Gomez de Liaño set to join PBA Rookie Draft

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Juan Gomez de Liaño is in.

After several years of skipping the PBA Draft, the former University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons star is finally ready to take the spotlight and headline this year’s rookie selection.

According to multiple reports, the crafty lefty has committed to join the 2025 PBA Draft and will be present on Sept. 7 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

This move has been long overdue for de Liaño, who previously drew interest from several PBA franchises but chose to pursue an overseas career.

He joined the Japan B. League exodus in 2021, signing with B2 League squad Earthfriends Tokyo Z.

Despite the team’s struggles, he completed his contract before moving to Lithuania.

De Liaño made history as the first Filipino to play in Europe’s Lietuvos Krepsinio Lyga, signing a one-year deal with the BC Wolves.

After a season in Lithuania, he brought his talents to the Korean Basketball League and secured a contract with the Seoul SK Knights in June 2023.

Now that his three-year stint with the SK Knights has ended, de Liaño will finally enter the 2025 draft class, where he is projected to be a top-five lottery pick.

Joining de Liaño in the rookie pool are Jason Brickman, Dalph Panopio, Will Gozum and Ilonggo guard John Bryan Sajonia.

The pride of Pavia, Iloilo, Sajonia confirmed to Daily Guardian that he will apply for this year’s draft.

He most recently played for the San Beda Red Lions, helping the team reach the NCAA playoffs.