Elasto Painters coach bets on potential in rookie draft

Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao is optimistic about his newest rookie class after selecting eight players in the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft. 

“You might get surprised by any of these guys,” Guiao said, emphasizing the group’s upside.

The Elasto Painters picked UST’s Christian Manaytay (10th overall) and Letran’s Arthur Roque (12th) in the first round, then added Mark Omega, Vince Cuajao, Joshua David, Cole Micek, Kyle Tolentino, and MJ Dela Virgen in later rounds.

Guiao believes the group is high on potential, even without a ready-made superstar, and is hopeful some could become Rain or Shine’s next breakout performers. 

“I think we do not have a ready-made superstar that will make an immediate impact, but I feel the potential of these guys is on the high side. We’re always looking for those finds and there’s an opportunity to draft these guys, see them in practice and make a decision.” Guiao explained. 
“Who knows, somebody there could be the next Jhonard Clarito or Adrian Nocum,” he added.

The team also added veteran guard Stanley Pringle in free agency to provide leadership as they aim for a finals berth after four straight semifinal appearances.