SMB set to welcome Gilas star

Christian Standhardinger is expected to be named as the first overall pick of the San Miguel Beermen today when the PBA holds its annual rookie draft today at the Robinsons Place in Ermita, Manila.

Two days after getting an approval from PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa to take Kia’s right to choose first through a trade, San Miguel is set to welcome the 6-foot-8 Fil-German to its star-studded lineup in the 4 p.m. proceeding.

Standhardinger will fly in from Hong Kong where he is contracted to play for the Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions in the ASEAN Basketball League to participate in the once-ina-lifetime experience of having to go up stage and greet his new team.

Barring a last-minute change of heart by San Miguel higher-ups, NLEX will go with former Ateneo star Kiefer Ravena as the No. 2 overall selection. Road Warriors coach Yeng Guiao had openly expressed his desire to take the fan-favorite should Standhardinger emerge as the first named called in the draft.

While the expected top two picks are all but assured, the remaining selections remain a guessing game.

Blackwater, selecting third, is keen on getting a big man in the draft, though former La Salle star Jeron Teng could be the best player available by the time they’re on the clock. Possible options for their desire frontline help are Teng’s former Green Archers teammate Jason Perkins and ex-Far Eastern University star Raymar Jose.