Will Ricci Rivero Get Drafted in the 2023 PBA? Latest Updates & Predictions

As I sit here thinking about the 2023 PBA draft, one name keeps popping into my mind - Will Ricci Rivero get drafted? I've been following Philippine basketball for over a decade now, and I have to say this is one of the most intriguing draft questions I've encountered in recent years. The buzz around Rivero reminds me somewhat of the PVL-PNVF situation we saw earlier this year, particularly how some players faced different hurdles based on their specific circumstances. Remember when all imports were initially barred from playing during that impasse? Only Smith had to go through that ordeal twice because her documentation wasn't complete - it shows how individual situations can create completely different paths even when starting from similar positions.

Rivero's journey feels particularly unique to me. Having watched him develop from his UAAP days, I've noticed he brings something special to the court that you don't see every day. His athleticism is off the charts - I'd estimate his vertical leap at around 38 inches based on what I've seen in games, though I don't have the exact measurements. What really stands out in my view is how he's evolved his game. Earlier in his career, he was primarily known for his highlight-reel dunks, but now he's developed a more well-rounded offensive arsenal. I remember watching his game against FEU last season where he dropped 24 points with 5 assists and 3 steals - those numbers really opened my eyes to his potential.

The PBA draft landscape this year is particularly interesting because teams are looking for specific types of players. From what I've gathered talking to people around the league, at least 6 teams are seriously considering guards in the first two rounds. Rivero's versatility could be both an advantage and a challenge - he's shown he can play multiple positions, but some scouts I've spoken with wonder where he'd fit best in the professional game. Personally, I think his ability to adapt makes him valuable regardless of position.

Looking at the current draft projections, I'd place Rivero somewhere between picks 8 and 12 in my estimation. The top 5 picks seem pretty locked in with the usual suspects - those big men and established scorers that always go early. But between picks 6 through 15, that's where the real intrigue begins. Teams like Blackwater and NorthPort might be looking exactly for someone with Rivero's skill set. I've heard through the grapevine that at least 3 teams have had serious conversations about him in their draft war rooms.

What really fascinates me about Rivero's case is how it parallels situations we've seen in other Philippine leagues. That whole PVL import situation with Smith having to sit out twice due to documentation issues? That shows how administrative and readiness factors can dramatically impact a player's opportunities. Rivero has been preparing for this moment for years, and from what I understand, all his paperwork is in order - which is more important than people realize. Teams don't want to draft someone who might have eligibility issues down the line.

The competition this year is pretty fierce though. There are approximately 47 players who have applied for the draft, and only 30 will hear their names called. Rivero's main competition comes from other guards like Schonny Winston and Sherwin Concepcion, both of whom have impressive collegiate resumes. But having watched all these players extensively, I'd give Rivero the edge in terms of marketability and fan appeal - which matters more than people think in the PBA landscape.

From my perspective, Rivero's international experience gives him a slight advantage. His stint in the ASEAN Basketball League exposed him to different styles of play that many local players haven't experienced. I recall watching him play against imports in that league and holding his own - he averaged about 12.3 points per game against foreign competition, which isn't bad for a young guard. That experience could translate well to the PBA where he'll frequently match up against skilled imports.

The biggest question mark in my mind isn't about his skills though - it's about fit. Some teams run systems that might not maximize his talents. If he lands with a team that prefers slow, half-court basketball, he might struggle initially. But if he goes to a team that wants to run and play uptempo? Watch out - he could be one of the steals of the draft. I'm personally hoping he lands with Phoenix or NLEX - both teams play styles that would suit his game perfectly.

As draft day approaches, I'm getting more convinced that Ricci Rivero will indeed get drafted in the 2023 PBA. The talent is there, the preparation seems solid, and the timing feels right. While nothing is guaranteed in sports - much like how Smith's situation unfolded unexpectedly in the PVL - all signs point toward Rivero hearing his name called on draft night. It might not be in the lottery picks, but somewhere in that 8-12 range feels about right to me. Whatever happens, I'll be watching closely - this is one draft story I'm particularly invested in following.