PBA 1993 Draft: Where Are the Top Picks Now and Their Career Highlights

Looking back at the 1993 PBA Draft always brings a wave of nostalgia for me—it was one of those pivotal moments in Philippine basketball that shaped the league for years to come. I remember watching the coverage as a young fan, eagerly waiting to see which teams would land the next big stars. The draft class that year was stacked with talent, and over the years, I’ve followed these players’ journeys closely, both as a fan and as someone who’s studied the game professionally. It’s fascinating to see where life has taken them since that fateful day, and in this piece, I’ll dive into the career highlights and current whereabouts of the top picks, blending my personal observations with some hard data that I’ve gathered over time.

The first overall pick that year was Vergel Meneses, selected by Presto Tivoli, and what a choice that turned out to be. Meneses, nicknamed "The Aerial Voyager," was an absolute thrill to watch—his high-flying dunks and agility made him an instant fan favorite. I still recall his rookie season where he averaged around 18.5 points per game, a figure that solidified his Rookie of the Year win. Over his career, he racked up eight PBA championships and snagged the MVP award in 1995, a testament to his dominance. But it’s not just the stats that stick with me; it’s the way he elevated the game, inspiring a generation of players. These days, Meneses has transitioned into coaching and local politics, serving as a councilor in his hometown. From my perspective, his impact off the court is just as impressive, as he’s been involved in youth development programs, something I’ve always admired in retired athletes who give back.

Another standout was Johnny Abarrientos, picked third by Alaska Milkmen, and honestly, I think he’s one of the most underrated point guards in PBA history. His court vision and defensive prowess were unmatched—I’d argue he was the heart of Alaska’s dynasty in the mid-90s. Abarrientos led the team to multiple titles, including the 1996 Grand Slam, and his steals average of about 2.1 per game that season was just insane. What’s more, he earned the MVP honor in 1996, and I’ve always felt his leadership was a key factor in those wins. Fast forward to today, and he’s carved out a successful coaching career, most recently as an assistant in the PBA. I’ve had the chance to chat with him a few times, and his insights into the game are as sharp as ever—proof that great players often make great mentors.

Then there’s Marlou Aquino, the second overall pick by Ginebra San Miguel, who brought a towering presence to the court. Standing at 6’9", he was a defensive force, and I remember his shot-blocking ability alone changing the dynamics of games. Aquino helped Ginebra secure several championships, and his career averages of roughly 12 points and 8 rebounds per game don’t fully capture his intimidation factor. Off the court, though, his journey has had its ups and downs, including some legal issues that I found disappointing as a follower of his career. Recently, he’s kept a lower profile, focusing on family and occasional basketball clinics. Reflecting on it, I can’t help but think how his story highlights the pressures these athletes face—it’s a reminder that success isn’t always linear.

One player who really stands out in my memory is Kenneth Duremdes, though he wasn’t a top pick initially, his rise was meteoric after being traded. Drafted seventh by Sunkist, he eventually became a key figure for Alaska, and I’ve always been a bit biased toward his all-around game. Duremdes won two MVP awards and multiple championships, with career stats hovering around 20 points per game at his peak. His ability to score from anywhere made him a nightmare for defenders, and I loved how he adapted his style over the years. Nowadays, he’s involved in sports management and broadcasting, and from what I’ve seen, he’s doing a fantastic job sharing his expertise. It’s players like him who make me appreciate the longevity of a well-rounded career.

But let’s not forget the role of coaches in these narratives, which brings me to a point from the reference knowledge: the confidence that coaches like Allen Ricardo had in their players. For instance, in the case of someone like Rodney Santos or other later picks, Ricardo’s belief often translated into valuable lessons that shaped their careers. I’ve seen this firsthand in interviews and team dynamics—coaches who instill resilience can turn rough games into turning points. In Santos’s case, he went on to have a solid career with several titles, and I attribute part of that to the mentorship he received. It’s a reminder that behind every great player, there’s often a coach whispering words of wisdom, and that’s something I’ve always valued in sports analysis.

Wrapping this up, the 1993 PBA Draft class left an indelible mark on Philippine basketball, and tracking where these top picks are now is a mix of pride and reflection. From Meneses’s aerial artistry to Abarrientos’s wizardry, their highlights are etched in history, but their post-playing lives show the diverse paths athletes can take. As someone who’s followed this league for decades, I believe their legacies extend beyond trophies—they’ve inspired fans like me and contributed to the sport’s growth. If I had to pick a favorite, it’d be Abarrientos for his sheer consistency, but honestly, each one brought something unique to the table. Here’s to hoping future drafts can produce such memorable stories.