Phoenix Super LPG might have gotten itself the steals of the PBA Season 47 Draft, Sunday at a packed Robinsons Place Manila in Ermita.
The Fuel Masters nabbed Ateneo guard Tyler Tio at 14th overall, and managed to take Encho Serrano at no. 19 in the second round of the proceedings.
Tio is just days removed from a memorable run with the Blue Eagles, which saw him win three UAAP gold medals and a silver in Season 84.
Serrano, on the other hand, brings with him a wealth of achievements from the amateurs, highlighted by MVP honors in both NBL and MPBL.
It was, however, quite a surprise that the Kapampangan guard dropped that low, considering that people pegged him as a first-rounder in mock drafts.
Taken ahead of Serrano were Ato Ular (13th, Blackwater), Kameron Vales (15th, Converge), and Chris Lalata (16th, Phoenix Super LPG).
Another MPBL standout Jhonard Clarito (17th, Rain or Shine), and RJ Ramirez (18th, Rain or Shine) were taken before him as well.
Meanwhile, Ginebra used its 20th pick to get winger Jayson David, who’s actually one of their players in the PBA 3×3.
NLEX took Chester Saldua with the 21st pick, as Letran big man Christian Fajarito was taken by Meralco with the 22nd selection.
NU guard Enzo Joson was picked at no. 23 by Phoenix as well, while Magnolia took 3×3 standout Carlo De Chavez with the 24th pick.