How do you make a championship team even better? That’s the question San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria is keeping in his back pocket as the Beermen gear up for the PBA Season 50 Draft this Sunday at the MOA Music Hall.
SMB holds the ninth overall pick, a spot that doesn’t guarantee a dream selection but could still land a hidden gem.
“At No. 9, chances are the players we’d ideally want won’t be there anymore,” Austria admitted. “So we’ll just grab the best talent available when it’s our turn.”
For Austria, the priority isn’t just adding fresh legs but also recognizing the core that brought the franchise its 30th title last July, when the Beermen dethroned TNT to win the Philippine Cup. “We also have to reward the guys already here,” he added, hinting there’s no plan to wheel-and-deal their way up the draft board.
While the draft looms large, Austria’s mind is equally on training camp. SMB resumed practice on August 28 and is slowly ramping up toward full gear, even with key stars sidelined. June Mar Fajardo (calf), CJ Perez (sprain), and Jericho Cruz (hamstring) have yet to fully join scrimmages, but Austria wants them present as the team integrates new adjustments.
“Even the injured guys attend practices so they can absorb the system changes right away,” Austria explained.
With the Philippine Cup tipping off October 5, the Beermen know they’ll be marked men once again. Every other team will be taking their best shot at the reigning champions, making the need for reinforcements even more crucial.
Still, Austria remains calm, confident that come draft night, San Miguel will find someone who can keep the dynasty rolling.