I remember watching Kent Salado during his collegiate days with the Arellano Chiefs, and there was always something special about how he commanded the court. His recent declaration for the PBA draft has sparked genuine curiosity across the basketball community—not just about whether he’ll get picked, but about which teams might see his unique value. Salado himself once remarked, “I’d rather ‘almost have it’ than not get there.” That statement, to me, reflects the kind of player he is: relentless, ambitious, and unafraid of the spotlight, even when the odds aren’t perfectly in his favor.

From my perspective, having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, Salado brings a mix of qualities that don’t always show up in stat sheets. He’s a playmaker with a knack for clutch moments—something you can’t teach. In the 2019 NCAA season, he averaged around 15.2 points and 5.8 assists per game, numbers that might not scream “superstar” but hint at his ability to elevate a team’s backcourt. I’ve always felt that his real strength lies in his basketball IQ; he reads defenses like a seasoned point guard, often making the right pass or taking the shot when it matters most. Still, the transition to the PBA is a whole different ballgame. The league’s physicality and pace have humbled many promising guards before him, and Salado will need to prove he can adapt quickly.

When it comes to team interest, I’ve heard whispers—and seen some social media buzz—suggesting that franchises like Blackwater, Terrafirma, and even NLEX could be keeping tabs on him. Blackwater, for instance, has been in rebuilding mode for a while now. They need a floor general who can inject energy into their offense, and Salado’s creativity fits that mold. Terrafirma, on the other hand, might view him as a backup option to bolster their guard rotation, especially if they’re looking for someone who can contribute off the bench right away. And let’s not forget NLEX; with their run-and-gun style, a player like Salado could thrive in their system. I’d argue, though, that his best shot lies with a team that values development over immediate results. Some squads tend to rush rookies, but Salado would benefit from a patient coaching staff that lets him grow into his role.

Let’s be real, though—the PBA draft is as much about timing and fit as it is about talent. Salado isn’t the tallest guard out there, standing at roughly 5’9”, and in a league that increasingly values size, that could work against him. But I’ve always believed heart and hustle can outweigh physical limitations. Look at players like Paul Lee or LA Tenorio; they’ve built legendary careers not on height, but on smarts and resilience. Salado has shown flashes of that same grit, especially in close games where he’s willing to take charge. His quote about “almost having it” isn’t just words; it’s a mindset. In my experience covering drafts, GMs and coaches notice that kind of intangibles—it’s what separates a draft steal from a forgettable pick.

Of course, there are risks. Salado’s injury history, including a knee issue that sidelined him for part of the 2021 season, might give some teams pause. I recall one game where he tweaked his ankle yet still played through the pain—admirable, but it raises questions about durability in the pros. Still, if he stays healthy, I’d estimate his draft stock hovering around the late first to early second round. That’s based on conversations with insiders and my own analysis of team needs. For example, if Blackwater holds the 5th pick, they might opt for a bigger name, but if Salado slips to, say, pick 10 or 12, he could be a savvy addition for a contender looking backcourt depth.

In the end, whether Kent Salado gets drafted boils down to how teams weigh potential against proven performance. His journey reminds me of other underdogs who’ve carved out niches in the PBA—players who didn’t have the flashiest resumes but brought something irreplaceable to the table. I, for one, hope he lands in a situation that lets his skills shine. Because at the end of the day, basketball isn’t just about stats; it’s about stories. And Salado’s determination to “almost have it” might just be the start of his next chapter.