By: Kim Yoshi Espiritu
Layout by Kim Yoshi Espiritu. Photo courtesy of Kim Yoshi Espiritu and FilOil EcoOil Sports.
On August 29, the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft deadline collected a record-high of 128 applicants from across local and overseas basketball, among the marquee aspirants coming from the Blue and Red in the NCAA.
Currently, there are three active Letran standouts vying to be a rookie in the oldest professional league in Asia—the laser shooter Deo Cuajao, do-it-all wing Jun Roque, and 6-foot-5 bruiser Mark Omega.
Cuajao, the Midsayap, North Cotabato native, debuted with the Knights back in Season 99. The 6-foot-1 shooting guard possesses one of the most profound offensive arsenals in college basketball, utilizing his frame in catch-and-shoot situations. His ranged lethality was on full display in his career game back in October 2024 after dropping 34 points in their double-overtime victory against the San Sebastian Golden Stags.
Omega, a 6-foot-5 big man who once played for Letran in high school before committing to the Perpetual Altas.
He later transferred back to Muralla to complete his final collegiate year. The bruiser has a relentless motor both in the paint and on the defensive end while also showing touch from the perimeter.
Another comeback recruit, Roque was named NCAA Season 99 Most Improved Player and also served as a Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 U23 delegate in the Youth Nations League in 2024. The 23-year old, 6-foot-4 forward was widely recognized for his two-way ability and a knack for draining shots from rainbow country. The length and athleticism of this cager is a valuable asset for Letran’s play.
The trio teamed up this past FilOil Preseason Cup and made their presence felt under head tactician Allen Ricardo. With their combined arsenal available for Ricardo’s use, the Knights dominated the group stage with an 8-1 record.
Coach Allen was extremely supportive of his player’s decision to shoot for the professional ranks that he shared a post in social media dedicated for the scouting teams.
“All three bring something valuable to the table. They’re fundamentally sound, coachable, and good listeners - qualities that give them a strong chance to succeed in this year's PBA Draft,” Ricardo wrote.
With their future career on the line, the trio is expected to boost Letran’s campaign for another championship crown come the NCAA Season 100.
Former Knights in Draft Mix
Aside from the current Knights aspiring to get drafted in the PBA, there is also a set of former Letran standouts that submitted their names prior to the deadline.
The list is led by former team captain, Kobe Monje, who, after playing his final Letran stint two seasons ago, moved to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League with the ValCity Magic. The reliable forward boasts his strong defensive abilities, athleticism, and leadership in his draft resume.
The three other players also showcased their game in the MPBL, with Ira Spencer Battaler suiting up for Manila, Kint Ariar competing with Imus Braderhood, and Kyle Tolentino playing for the GenSan Warriors.
Their credentials and experience being part of Letran’s legendary championship squads can be a valuable asset for the teams in the draft.
Now that the list of applicants is complete, the players will undergo training sessions and private workouts in preparation for the PBA draft combine on September 3-4 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Meanwhile, the PBA rookie draft will be held on September 7 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.