Dyip have Chiu in tow as top PBA Draft pick

(Updated, 7:15 p.m.) MANILA, Philippines — Terrafirma has gone big. 

The Dyip on Sunday selected 6-foot-9 big man Geo Chiu as the first overall pick of PBA Season 50 Draft during the selection rites at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.

Chiu, the tallest aspirant of the rookie draft, is a former Ateneo Blue Eagle. 

After his collegiate career, he took his talents overseas, suiting up in the Japan B.League B2. He also saw action for the Taiwan Mustangs in The Asian Tournament. 

After his overseas stints, Chiu returned home and played in the MPBL for Abra. 

“It’s a shock. Now I’m here and ‘m thankful for this opportunity,” he said. 

“I just try to do whatever they ask me. Hopefully, I’ll be able to help the team, get some wins and have a good season,” he added. 

Chiu will shore the frontline for Terrafirma, who won just three games in PBA Season 49. 

With the biggest player out of the list, the Converge FiberXers selected Juan Gomez-de Liano for the second overall pick. 

Gomez-de Liano, a former UP Fighting Maroon, will be a key piece for the FiberXers, as he will form a potent scoring backcourt with Alec Stockton. 

Dalph Panopio was drafted third overall by the Blackwater Bossing, followed by Chris Koon as the fourth overall for the NorthPort Batang Pier. 

NLEX then selected LJ Gonzales as the fifth overall pick, followed by Yukien Andrada as the sixth overall selection by the Magnolia Hotshots. 

Jason Brickman (Meralco,) Will Gozum (Phoenix,) Chris Miller (San Miguel,) Christian Manaytay (Rain or Shine,) Sonny Estil (Ginebra) and Jun Roque (Rain or Shine) complete the 12 first round selections.