EIGHT FORMER UST Growling Tigers were drafted in the 2025 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft, with power forward Christian Manaytay leading the pack after being picked 10th overall by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Sunday, Sept. 7, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.
From a pool of 122 applicants, the 6-foot-5 forward secured a coveted first-round spot, going 10th overall to Rain or Shine.
“It’s a huge honor to be able to play under coach Yeng Guiao because we all know that coach Yeng really makes use of his players and focuses on development.” Manaytay said in an interview after being drafted.
He also expressed excitement about playing alongside former UST assistant coach Beau Belga.
“Since they’re the veterans, I can really learn a lot from them—not just on offense but mainly on defense, which I think is where I can contribute more to the team,” he added.
Originally recruited by the DLSU Green Archers, Manaytay transferred to UST to play under then coach Aldin Ayo, enduring a tough collegiate journey marked by rebuilding and controversies.
From Seasons 84 to 86, the España-based squad managed only six wins, but in Season 87, Manaytay helped lead his squad to its best finish since Season 82.
In his final UAAP stint, he averaged 8.47 points and three rebounds, steering UST to a bronze finish.
He will also be reunited with former teammate Deo Cuajao, drafted 22nd overall by Rain or Shine. Cuajao suited up for UST for in Season 84 before transferring to Letran.
Meanwhile, 6-foot-7 Cebuano big man Dave Ando was drafted 14th overall pick by the Phoenix Fuel Masters. Ando last played for UST in Season 84, when the Tigers finished with a 3-11 record, before foregoing his remaining UAAP eligibility.
JJ Gesalem, who played three seasons with UST, was chosen as the 51st overall pick by Northport Batang Pier. Gesalem was part of the Tigers from Seasons 84 to 86.
Former Growling Tiger Geremy Robinson was selected 70th overall by the Converge FiberXers. The 6-foot-2 guard was part of the Season 87 roster that secured a podium finish before leaving the team due to academic issues.
Other ex-Tigers drafted were Royce Mantua, taken 33rd overall by the San Miguel Beermen; Ira Bataller, the 62nd overall pick by Terrafirma Dyip; and Jordan Sta. Ana, who went 66th overall to the Converge FiberXers. F
