Looking Back at the 2004 PBA Draft: Key Picks and Career Highlights
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I still vividly remember sitting in front of the television on August 22, 2004, watching the Philippine Basketball Association draft unfold with that particular mix of anticipation and skepticism that only true basketball fans would understand. That year's draft class has since become one of those legendary groups that people still debate about over beers – some picks turned out to be absolute steals, while others never quite lived up to their potential. What makes the 2004 draft particularly fascinating to me isn't just the talent that emerged, but how these players' careers unfolded in ways that nobody could have predicted during that draft night.
The first round saw Rich Alvarez going to Shell Turbo Chargers as the number one pick, followed by James Yap to Purefoods at number two. Now, looking back, I have to admit I was among those who questioned whether Yap was worth that high pick. Boy, was I wrong. While Alvarez had a respectable career, Yap transformed into "Big Game James," winning two MVP awards and multiple championships. His scoring ability and clutch performances became the stuff of legends. Meanwhile, the third pick, Ateneo's LA Tenorio to San Miguel, turned out to be perhaps the steal of the draft. Tenorio's longevity and consistency at the point guard position have been remarkable – he's still playing at a high level nearly two decades later. I've always had a soft spot for point guards who can control the game without needing to score heavily, and Tenorio exemplifies that perfectly.
What many casual fans forget is how deep this draft class actually was. Beyond the first round, teams found incredible value. The Coca-Cola Tigers selected John Arigo at number four, and while he wasn't a flashy player, he provided exactly what the team needed – reliable outside shooting and veteran leadership. Then there was the seventh pick, Dorian Peña to Red Bull, who became one of the most dominant rebounders of his era. I remember watching Peña battle in the paint against much taller imports and consistently holding his own. His physical style of play might not have been pretty, but it was incredibly effective.
The second round produced some notable names too, with Magnolia taking Niño Canaleta at number eleven. Canaleta's high-flying dunks made him a fan favorite, though I've always felt he never quite reached his full potential. Meanwhile, Rain or Shine found a gem in Jay-R Reyes at number fourteen – a serviceable big man who carved out a solid decade-long career. These mid-to-late round successes demonstrate why thorough scouting matters so much in the PBA. Teams that did their homework found rotation players and occasional starters deep in the draft.
When I reflect on the careers that emerged from this draft class, what strikes me most is how their professional journeys mirrored the evolution of Philippine basketball itself. This was the era when the PBA was transitioning toward a faster, more perimeter-oriented game, and many players from this draft class adapted beautifully. James Yap's scoring prowess exemplified the rising importance of offensive firepower, while Tenorio's court vision represented the continuing value of traditional point guard skills. The league was changing, and these players were at the forefront of that transformation.
Statistics only tell part of the story, but they're worth examining. James Yap finished his career with approximately 12,500 points, placing him among the league's all-time scoring leaders. LA Tenorio likely surpassed 7,000 assists, putting him in elite company among PBA playmakers. These numbers become even more impressive when you consider the level of competition during their primes. The mid-2000s to early 2010s featured some of the most talented imports and local players in PBA history, making their achievements all the more significant.
What I find particularly compelling about analyzing this draft class is recognizing how team context shaped these players' careers. Tenorio benefited tremendously from joining a San Miguel system known for developing guards, while Yap thrived in Purefoods' offensive scheme that highlighted his scoring abilities. Meanwhile, some equally talented players landed in less ideal situations and never quite blossomed. This reminds me that in basketball, as in life, opportunity and environment matter just as much as raw talent.
The legacy of the 2004 draft extends beyond individual accomplishments. These players formed the core of the national team for years, contributing to the Philippines' resurgence in international competition. Their professional longevity – with several playing well into their late 30s – set new standards for career duration in the PBA. They demonstrated that with proper conditioning and adaptability, Filipino players could maintain elite performance levels much longer than previously thought possible.
As I wrap up this reflection, I'm struck by how the 2004 draft represents both the predictability and unpredictability of basketball talent evaluation. Some picks turned out exactly as expected, while others surprised everyone. The careers that emerged from that day have given PBA fans nearly two decades of memorable moments, championship runs, and individual brilliance. Though the 2004 rookies are now veterans approaching retirement, their impact on the league remains visible in today's game. They set standards of excellence and professionalism that continue to influence younger generations of Filipino basketball players.