I still remember the first time I watched Kent Salado play—it was during the 2019 PBA D-League Foundation Cup, and even then, you could tell there was something special about this kid. Fast forward to today, and the buzz around his PBA draft journey is impossible to ignore. Teams are asking themselves: what makes this 5'9" guard from Arellano University worth a closer look? As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve seen plenty of promising talents come and go, but Salado’s story feels different. It’s not just about his stats—though averaging 15.7 points and 5.4 assists in his final collegiate season is nothing to scoff at—it’s about the resilience he’s shown, especially after that ACL injury in 2021 that could’ve ended his career.
I’ve always believed that how a player bounces back from setbacks says more about their potential than any highlight reel. In Salado’s case, his journey back to the court was nothing short of inspiring. He didn’t just rehab; he reinvented parts of his game, focusing on smarter decision-making and honing his outside shot. And that mindset? It reminds me of something he once said in an interview: “I’d rather ‘almost have it’ than not get there.” That phrase stuck with me because it captures the essence of what separates good players from great ones. It’s not about perfection; it’s about the relentless pursuit of growth, even when the odds aren’t in your favor.
Now, let’s talk about which teams might be eyeing this rising star. From my conversations with scouts and insiders, it’s clear that franchises like Blackwater, Terrafirma, and even NorthPort are keeping tabs on him. Why? Because Salado brings a mix of playmaking and fearlessness that’s hard to find in a guard his size. Blackwater, for instance, struggled with backcourt consistency last season, finishing with a dismal 1-10 record. They need a floor general who can create opportunities, and Salado’s ability to drive and dish—averaging around 6.2 potential assists per game in the MPBL—makes him an intriguing fit. Terrafirma, on the other hand, has been rebuilding for what feels like forever, and adding a young, hungry guard could inject some much-needed energy into their lineup.
But here’s the thing: while Salado’s offensive creativity is undeniable, some teams worry about his durability and defensive limitations. At 5'9", he’s undersized for a combo guard in the PBA, where physicality often dictates the tempo. I’ve seen smaller guards get exposed on switches, and unless Salado bulks up or refines his defensive IQ, he might struggle against elite scorers. Still, I can’t help but feel that these concerns are overblown. Remember, Jayson Castro—arguably one of the best PBA guards of all time—wasn’t exactly a giant when he started, but he used his speed and IQ to dominate. Salado has a similar knack for reading defenses, and if he lands with a team that values pace and space, he could thrive.
So, what’s the solution for teams considering drafting him? In my opinion, it’s all about fit and patience. Salado isn’t a plug-and-play superstar; he’s a project with a high ceiling. The right team would need to pair him with a defensive-minded backcourt partner and give him the freedom to make mistakes. Think of how Ginebra developed Scottie Thompson—they didn’t rush him into a starring role but let him grow into it. Salado could benefit from a similar approach, maybe spending his first year as a sixth man while he adjusts to the PBA’s physicality. And let’s not forget his leadership intangibles. I’ve heard from coaches that he’s the kind of player who lifts everyone around him, whether it’s in practice or during crunch time.
Looking at the bigger picture, Salado’s draft journey offers a lesson for both players and teams. For aspiring athletes, it’s a reminder that resilience and mindset often trump raw talent. As he put it, “I’d rather ‘almost have it’ than not get there.” That attitude is why I believe he’ll find his place in the league, even if it takes time. For teams, it’s about recognizing that diamonds in the rough require polishing. In an era where instant gratification often drives draft decisions, taking a chance on a player like Salado—who’s overcome adversity and shown continuous improvement—could pay off in the long run. Personally, I’d love to see him land with a team that values player development, like Rain or Shine or even Magnolia. Both have systems that emphasize guard play and could maximize his strengths.
At the end of the day, Kent Salado’s PBA draft journey is more than just a storyline—it’s a testament to what happens when talent meets tenacity. Whether he ends up as a starter or a role player, one thing’s for sure: he’s earned this shot. And as someone who’s watched his career unfold, I’m excited to see where he lands. Because players like him? They don’t just make teams better; they make the league more interesting to watch.