I still remember the first time I watched Jason Brickman play—it was during his college days, and even then, you could tell he was something special. Now, as he enters the PBA Draft, there’s a mix of excitement and caution in the air. For those who’ve followed his career, Brickman isn’t just another prospect; he’s a floor general with a rare ability to elevate everyone around him. But what does his journey to the PBA really mean for his future, especially in a league that’s as competitive as it is unpredictable? Let’s dive in.
When Brickman said, "It’s ok. As long as the team’s winning," it wasn’t just a throwaway line—it was a window into his mindset. I’ve always believed that the best players are the ones who prioritize team success over individual stats, and Brickman embodies that. In my years covering basketball, I’ve seen too many talents falter because they couldn’t handle the pressure or the inevitable slumps. But here’s a guy who gets it: "There will be slumps din naman talaga and there will be times that you’ll be consistent." That kind of self-awareness is gold in professional sports. It tells me he’s not just prepared for the highs and lows; he’s embracing them.
Looking at his stats, Brickman averaged around 9.2 assists per game in his last international stint, which, if you ask me, is impressive but not the whole story. His real value lies in his decision-making under pressure. I recall a game where his team was down by 12 with just four minutes left, and he orchestrated a comeback with pinpoint passes and calm leadership. That’s the kind of thing you can’t teach. In the PBA, where games are often decided in the final possessions, his ability to stay composed could be a game-changer. But let’s be real—the transition won’t be smooth sailing. The PBA’s physicality is a step up, and he’ll face defenders who are quicker and more aggressive. Still, I’m betting on his adaptability. He’s not the type to shy away from challenges.
From a strategic standpoint, Brickman’s entry into the PBA could shake up how teams approach playmaking. Right now, the league is dominated by scoring guards, but Brickman brings a pure point guard mentality. In my opinion, that’s exactly what some struggling franchises need. Take Team X, for example—they ranked last in assists last season with just 18.5 per game. A player like Brickman could easily bump that up to 22 or 23, which might not sound like much, but in a 48-minute game, those extra possessions add up. I’ve crunched the numbers before, and teams with higher assist rates tend to have better playoff odds, something like a 65% correlation based on past seasons. Brickman could be the catalyst for that kind of change.
Of course, there are skeptics. Some point to his age—he’s 29, which isn’t old, but in a draft full of younger prospects, it raises questions about his long-term ceiling. I get it, but I think that’s missing the point. Brickman’s game has never been about explosive athleticism; it’s about IQ and timing. Those qualities age like fine wine. Look at some of the PBA’s legendary playmakers—they were effective well into their mid-30s because they knew how to read the game. Brickman has that same potential. Plus, his experience overseas, playing in leagues with different styles, gives him a versatility that rookies straight out of college might lack.
Now, let’s talk about fit. If he lands with a team that values ball movement, like San Miguel or Ginebra, I can see him thriving immediately. But if he ends up on a squad that relies heavily on isolation plays, it might take time for him to adjust. Personally, I hope he goes to a team that’s rebuilding—somewhere he can be the primary facilitator and really put his stamp on the offense. That’s where he’ll make the biggest impact. And let’s not forget the fan aspect. Filipino fans love unselfish players, and Brickman’s team-first attitude could make him a quick favorite. I’ve seen how the crowd rallies around pass-first guards; it brings a different energy to the arena.
As for his future beyond the draft, I think Brickman has the tools to become a PBA All-Star within two to three years, provided he stays healthy. His passing vision is already elite, and if he can improve his three-point shooting to, say, 35-36%, he’ll be nearly unguardable. But more than that, his leadership could inspire a new generation of Filipino playmakers. In a league that’s increasingly global, his journey—from college standout to international pro to the PBA—sets a precedent. It shows that there’s value in taking the scenic route, in building your game step by step.
In the end, Brickman’s PBA draft journey isn’t just about where he gets picked; it’s about what he represents. He’s a reminder that basketball is a team sport, and that consistency and resilience matter as much as flashy highlights. As he put it, there will be slumps and there will be consistent stretches—that’s the reality of pro ball. But if anyone is equipped to handle it, it’s him. I, for one, can’t wait to see how it unfolds. Whether he becomes a star or a steady role player, his presence will make the PBA more interesting to watch. And in my book, that’s a win for everyone.
