Terrafirma bets on big man Geo Chiu as top pick in PBA draft

Terrafirma Dyip prioritized size in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, selecting 6-foot-9 center Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick. 

Chiu joins a list of former top picks for Dyip, though many before him have moved on from the team. Whether he can break the trend and become the franchise anchor remains to be seen.

The 24-year-old rookie said this after he unsurprisingly emerged the first overall pick of the PBA Rookie Draft held on Sunday. 

“In going pro, you’re up against veterans, seasoned veterans. There is a lot to learn with my new team right now,” said Chiu.

Chiu’s college and pro track record shows he has something to prove, having never averaged double-digit points. 

But he still could not suit up immediately for Terrafirma as he is yet to finish his stint with the Abra Weavers in another league—and it will last until December, depending on their campaign.

Chiu also said that he'd still be with his MPBL team.

"Opo, yes. Mga December po siguro. I think... if ever we reach the finals, then baka mga December po siya," he added. 

Still, head coach Ronald Tubid is expected to give him every opportunity to develop as the Dyip rebuilds with a roster that includes nine more rookies.

Veteran departures have forced a reset, with only a handful of holdovers left. NorthPort Batang Pier also loaded up in the draft, selecting 11 players and making key offseason trades. 

Of 122 applicants, 78 were drafted, but only about 20 rookies are expected to stick with final lineups.

All eyes are now on Chiu as he aims to carve out a lasting role and help turn Terrafirma’s fortunes around.