As I sit here reviewing footage from the PBA Draft Combine, one name keeps popping up in my conversations with scouts and coaches: Chris Bitoon. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've seen countless prospects come through the draft process, but there's something particularly intriguing about this young guard from St. Clare College. When I first watched him play in the PBA D-League, his basketball IQ immediately stood out - that rare combination of court vision and defensive awareness that you can't teach.
What really caught my attention recently was his comment about team chemistry during their Korea training camp. "We've been trying to do the chemistry since Korea. I'm just going to stick to the system, whatever it is, whatever defense they bring, I'm just going to stick to the system," Bitoon told reporters. Now, that might sound like typical athlete speak to some, but to me, it reveals something crucial about his mindset. In my experience covering the PBA, players who emphasize system play over individual stats tend to have longer, more successful careers. Remember when Scottie Thompson entered the league? Similar approach, and look at him now - a regular MVP candidate.
Let's talk about his actual game. Standing at 6'1", Bitoon brings this beautiful versatility that coaches are absolutely craving in today's PBA. I've charted his stats from the D-League - he averaged around 15.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game last season. Those numbers don't jump off the page, but when you watch the tape, you see how he impacts winning beyond the box score. His defensive rotations are sharp, and he's one of those players who always seems to be in the right place at the right time. I particularly love how he reads pick-and-roll situations - he's consistently two steps ahead of the offense.
The Korea training camp reference isn't just throwaway commentary either. From what I've gathered from sources within the team, that international exposure was crucial for his development. Playing against different styles, adapting to various defensive schemes - these experiences typically separate the ready-now prospects from the development projects. When Bitoon talks about sticking to the system regardless of what defense opponents throw at him, it tells me he's processed these international experiences and understands the value of adaptability at the professional level.
Here's where I might differ from some analysts: I believe Bitoon's ceiling is higher than most project. While many see him as a solid rotation player, I think he could develop into a starting-caliber guard within 2-3 seasons. His shooting mechanics need some work - he shot about 32% from three-point range last season, which needs to improve to around 36-38% for him to be truly effective in the PBA. But his mid-range game is already pro-ready, and his ability to finish through contact surprised me given his relatively slender frame.
What really excites me about Bitoon is his mental approach. In my twenty years covering basketball, I've learned that physical tools only take you so far. The players who last are the ones who understand their role and embrace it. When Bitoon emphasizes sticking to the system, he's essentially telling coaches, "I won't try to do too much, I'll play within myself and the team concept." That's gold in a league where chemistry can make or break a franchise. I've seen too many talented prospects flame out because they couldn't adapt to structured systems or accept their role.
Looking at potential fits, I'd love to see him land with a team like Rain or Shine or Magnolia. These franchises have established systems where players like Bitoon tend to thrive. They develop talent methodically and value the kind of team-first mentality he's expressing. Can you imagine him learning from a veteran like Paul Lee? That would be ideal for his development timeline.
The draft combine numbers showed some interesting data points too. His vertical leap measured at 38 inches, which places him in the 85th percentile for guards in recent drafts. His lane agility time of 10.8 seconds was particularly impressive - quicker than some more heralded prospects. These physical tools, combined with his basketball IQ, create a fascinating package that I believe several teams are higher on than public mock drafts suggest.
I'm telling you, five years from now, we might look back at this draft and wonder how Bitoon wasn't selected earlier. He's the type of player whose value becomes more apparent the longer he's in the league. While flashier prospects might get more attention initially, the steady, system-oriented approach that Bitoon brings often yields better long-term results. The PBA has shifted toward more team-oriented basketball in recent seasons, and Bitoon's skillset aligns perfectly with this evolution.
As draft night approaches, I'm keeping a close eye on where Bitoon ultimately lands. His success will depend heavily on finding the right system - one that values his particular blend of skills and mental approach. But based on what I've seen and what he's said about his philosophy, I'm confident we'll be seeing him contribute meaningful minutes sooner rather than later. The team that selects him will be getting not just a basketball player, but a student of the game who understands what it takes to win at the professional level.