MANILA, Philippines – Tim Cone has put his faith in Sonny Estil to turn from an obscure draft selection into a significant asset for Barangay Ginebra. Cone believes the rookie might be a Cinderella story for the Kings in Season 50, as Estil’s journey to the PBA blends surprise with promise. Although the 24-year-old forward was unexpectedly selected with the ninth overall choice in the first round, the coaching staff had been keeping a close eye on him long before the draft.

Barangay Ginebra coaches Olsen Racela and Jam Lipae, among others, suggested video scouting and paying special attention to Estil’s size and athleticism after he attracted attention during the Draft Combine. Estil’s physical tools, floor-running skills, and aptitude for getting to the hoop made him stand out during those preliminary games. He can play a variety of forward positions in Ginebra’s system thanks to his 6-foot-3 height, movement, and attacking mentality. Those qualities were strengthened by his collegiate season performance for Letran. Estil’s profile rose after he was chosen for the Mythical Team and awarded MVP. He was a target worth consideration at Ginebra’s pick because of his collegiate accomplishments, which gave the pre-draft assessment more credibility. Ginebra profited when previous teams passed on him, obtaining Estil at ninth overall after those teams failed to recognize his potential.

Under Cone, Estil joins a veteran-heavy roster that demands two things: contribution and flexibility. Ginebra’s strategy requires forwards to do more than just score goals. They have to compete for rebounds, move without the ball, defend, and contribute energy during transitions. Ginebra expects component players that can contribute in all stages of the game, and Estil’s skill at running the floor and attacking near the rim fits the bill. The pace and roughness of PBA games are also very different from those at the NCAA level, and the rookie must get used to them. In order to assess his consistency, judgment, and fortitude in competitive settings, the coaching staff will probably start him with restricted playing time, including in bench units.

The psychological aspect of Estil’s story is significant in Cone’s opinion. Estil has a story that could inspire confidence and resiliency because of his journey from near obscurity to winning MVP in college and then being passed over by multiple teams before being chosen by Ginebra. Cone hopes the chip on his shoulder will be embraced by Estil. When a player has something to prove, they are more likely to put out effort on defense, practice hard, and focus on getting better. Estil’s physical tools offer a starting point; whether he reaches his full potential will depend on his mindset and openness to learning. It will matter how hard he works during training camp, off-season conditioning, and learning the Kings’ system.

Although Estil’s height and athleticism are significant, job clarity and minutes will be crucial to his success. Cone’s integration will require cautious management. Ginebra’s rotational veterans, seasoned forwards, and mestizos will be barriers to playing time right away. Estil’s minutes will depend on how well he adjusts to defensive rotations, sets, and the PBA offense’s quickness. Before extending his role, Ginebra will probably test him in smaller lineups and bench groups. Gaining the coach’s trust will depend on a number of factors, including efficiency, minimal turnover, shot selection, rebounding, and interior finishing.

Estil has a somewhat high ceiling. He seems capable of developing into a dependable rotation forward who finishes inside, defends hard, and helps in transition. Finding value deep in the draft is essential for Ginebra to maintain long-term competition; Estil’s accomplishment might support Cone’s standing as a producer of less evident potential. Estil might change Ginebra’s rotation dynamics if he does well, especially when he is not playing, which would provide Cone additional options.

Ginebra will have lower expectations. Estil won’t be asked to lift the burden before its time. The focus will continue to be on the established players and the veteran core. The contributions from Estil will be gradual. Instead of becoming a breakthrough star right away, it is anticipated that he will develop into a reliable piece over time. Cone believes Estil’s tale ends well in a number of ways, including securing a steady role, setting a good example for upcoming draft picks, and assisting the Kings in winning close games.

In general, Estil is a project that shows promise for Barangay Ginebra. His physical characteristics, underdog story, and draft choice provide curiosity. His course will be determined by the upcoming months.