2025 PBA DRAFT REVIEW | TNT TROPANG 5G

TNT knows how to squeeze value out of overlooked talent.

In the past couple of years, they’ve quietly built their bench by picking up unsigned players like Kim Aurin, CJ Payawal, and Jielo Razon—moves that have paid dividends without burning high draft capital.

TNT’s 2025 draft haul may not have made major headlines, but it’s still worth a closer look. The Tropang 5G grabbed Ateneo guard Sean Quitevis in the third round and San Beda big man Joe Celzo in the fourth, both of whom have direct ties to the MVP Group's schools. Quitevis has already been integrated into the TNT system as a practice player, while Celzo remains an intriguing project since he’ll continue honing his game with San Beda in NCAA Season 101.

That said, the bigger picture is just as interesting. TNT has a reputation for pouncing on players who slip through the cracks, and with Rain or Shine owning seven picks in the first four rounds, there’s a strong chance they’ll act like sharks circling dropped talent. Names like John Barba of LPU and Gab Cometa of Benilde are particularly attractive, especially since both will be playing in Season 101 and could make Final Four runs. If either shines, don’t be surprised if Chot Reyes finds them a roster spot, given TNT’s need for energetic role players. For now, Celzo’s challenge will be carving out space in a frontcourt already featuring Magnolia draftee Yukien Andrada and steady contributor Bismarck Lina.

TNT may not have landed big stars, but they’ve once again positioned themselves as opportunists who can turn forgotten names into serviceable pros.

PICK	TNT TROPANG 5G	COMBINE TEAM
1	SEAN QUITEVIS | 35	TERRAFIRMA
2	JOE CELZO | 46	SAN MIGUEL