Terrafirma made headlines in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft by selecting former Ateneo big man Geo Chiu as the first overall pick on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena Music Hall. Standing 6-foot-9, Chiu was chosen over a pool of highly-touted guards and versatile scorers, signaling the Dyip’s decision to prioritize size for their rebuilding roster.
Chiu, who recently suited up for the Taiwan Mustangs and currently plays in the MPBL with Abra, has been more recognized for his backup roles in previous stints. Yet Terrafirma saw his potential as a defensive anchor and interior presence, making him the second straight frontcourt player to be taken No. 1 after Justine Baltazar in last year’s draft.
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A Surprise First Pick
Many observers expected guards like Juan Gomez de Liaño, Dalph Panopio, or Jason Brickman to land at the top. Even former NCAA MVP Will Gozum was seen as a strong candidate. But Terrafirma stuck with its choice.
“I just try to do whatever they ask me to do so hopefully I’ll be able to help the team get some wins and have a great season,” Chiu said after his name was called. The rookie also expressed his eagerness to make an immediate impact, smiling as he looked forward to his first PBA campaign.
Chiu’s resume, highlighted by a UAAP title with Ateneo and overseas stints in Japan and Taiwan, was enough to convince the Dyip. He will now join Terrafirma’s young core alongside Louie Sangalang, Mark Nonoy, and Brent Paraiso.
Other First-Round Highlights
Converge wasted no time in securing Juan Gomez de Liaño with the second pick, following a trade with Phoenix. Blackwater then added former Gilas Youth guard Dalph Panopio at third, pairing him with Sedrick Barefield for a dynamic backcourt duo.
NorthPort opted for another Ateneo product, Chris Koon, at fourth overall, while NLEX picked ex-FEU standout LJay Gonzales at fifth. Magnolia chose Yukien Andrada, while Meralco benefitted at seventh by taking veteran playmaker Jason Brickman, who slid further than expected. Brickman’s long career overseas, including titles in the ABL and Taiwan’s T1 League, gives the Bolts an instant floor general.
The round closed with Phoenix grabbing Will Gozum at eighth, followed by Chris Miller (San Miguel, 9th), Christian Manaytay (Rain or Shine, 10th), Sonny Estil (Barangay Ginebra, 11th), and Arthur Roque (Rain or Shine, 12th).
A New Chapter for Terrafirma
For the Dyip, Chiu’s arrival represents a bold bet on size and development. The franchise, long seeking a cornerstone big man, is hoping the rookie can grow into a central piece of its system. Whether Chiu becomes a dominant force or continues as a role player will largely shape Terrafirma’s future in Season 50 and beyond.
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