MANILA, Philippines – As the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) enters a pivotal phase of its 50th season, teams are starting to cement their hopes of making the playoffs, seasoned players are trying to hold onto their domination, and up-and-coming players are grabbing their opportunity to shine. A number of players stand out as must-watch figures in this quarter of 2025, which is proving to be an intriguing blend of established excellence and up-and-coming promise.

The following five players are influencing the current discourse in Philippine basketball:

1. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s Scottie Thompson

There aren’t many athletes who exhibit consistency and leadership like Scottie Thompson. Thompson’s influence goes much beyond the statistics, as he is now firmly established as the center of Barangay Ginebra. No matter the situation, the Gin Kings remain competitive thanks to his ability to manage the tempo, rebound against larger opponents, and make clutch plays.

Thompson’s contribution has been even more significant this quarter as Ginebra deals with the ailments of important players. His defensive instincts and court vision are essential to upholding their recognizable “Never Say Die” mentality. In addition to being an MVP, Thompson continues to be the gauge of Ginebra’s performance, and his output in the upcoming weeks may determine their prospects of making the playoffs.

2. TNT Tropang Giga’s Calvin Oftana

Calvin Oftana is one forward who is making great progress toward becoming a superstar. With the ability to score goals and take on the duty of protecting the opponent’s best perimeter threat, the dynamic wing has been TNT’s most reliable two-way force. Tropang Giga’s offense now has additional dimensions thanks to his mid-range arsenal and better outside shooting.

Not only is Oftana performing well on his own, but he is also becoming the dependable player TNT needs during close games. The team is depending more and more on Oftana to carry both leadership and production while veterans like Jayson Castro take on less responsibilities. Whether he can fully assume the role of TNT’s future cornerstone will be revealed in the upcoming weeks.

3. San Miguel Beermen’s CJ Perez

There are no indications that the reigning PBA MVP would slow down. Even with a team full of elite players, CJ Perez’s combination of explosiveness, quickness, and scoring variety has solidified him as the Beermen’s go-to weapon. His vigor on both ends has been essential to San Miguel’s well-rounded assault, and his cutting drives, transition finishes, and improved three-point shooting continue to overwhelm defenses.

As San Miguel attempts to maintain its dynastic status in the face of younger, more hungry competitors, Perez’s significance grows. Perez is the new force behind the Beermen’s title aspirations, as they have prospered on depth and experience. San Miguel is still the squad to beat as long as he is healthy.

4. Blackwater Bossing’s Barkley Eboña

Barkley Eboña is this quarter’s breakout player, as is the case every PBA season. The forward, who was previously thought of as a role player, has become Blackwater’s primary anchor. He has developed into a dependable inside presence thanks to his physicality, better footwork, and unwavering work ethic.

Blackwater’s newfound competitiveness is reflected in Eboña’s rise. The Bossing are finally showing signs of life after suffering at the bottom of the standings for several seasons, and Eboña’s steadiness has been a major factor. His growth not only offers Blackwater a respectable interior option but also lays the groundwork for the team’s reconstruction. His ability to maintain this high level of play will be constantly monitored by onlookers.

5. NLEX Road Warriors’ RJ Abarrientos

RJ Abarrientos has rapidly reestablished himself as one of the league’s most captivating young guards after returning from international assignments. He is a perfect fit for the fast-paced style of the Road Warriors because of his ability to drive the tempo, make big shots from beyond the arc, and open doors for teammates.

Abarrientos’s bravery is what makes him unique. The youthful guard thrives in late-game circumstances, attacking seasoned players, and embracing the moment even under pressure. His comeback has given the NLEX backcourt new life and given fans who are waiting for a breakthrough run hope. Abarrientos has the potential to be the next franchise guard in the PBA if he keeps up his present pace.

In conclusion

This quarter of the PBA season is a fascinating crossroads of eras; while younger players like Calvin Oftana, Barkley Eboña, and RJ Abarrientos portend the league’s bright future, more experienced legends like Scottie Thompson and CJ Perez continue to improve their clubs. From chasing championships to making personal strides, everybody has a distinct narrative to tell. Their efforts are influencing not just this season but also the future of Philippine basketball.

One thing is evident as spectators pack venues and watch every highlight: the PBA thrives on striking a balance between youth and experience. These five players are the perfect example of why the league is still the lifeblood of Philippine sports and why the upcoming weeks will be filled with hardcourt drama that will never be forgotten.