The Greatest Top 5 Picks in PBA Draft History: A Look Back at the Legendary 2004 Class

When you talk about the greatest draft classes in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history, one year towers above the rest: the 2004 PBA Draft. Often hailed by fans and analysts alike as the most talent-rich top 5 in league history, this iconic class produced league MVPs, multiple-time champions, and household names who helped define an era of Filipino basketball.

Let’s break down why the Top 5 Picks of the 2004 PBA Draft remain the gold standard nearly two decades later.

1. Rich Alvarez – #1 Pick by Shell

Rich Alvarez entered the league as the top overall pick and lived up to expectations by capturing the 2004–05 Rookie of the Year award. Known for his relentless energy and elite defensive instincts, Alvarez made an immediate impact and was also named to the All-Rookie and All-Defensive Teams in his debut season. While his offensive stats—such as 8.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game in his best year—weren’t headline-grabbing, his contributions were vital to team success. Alvarez played a key role in winning four PBA championships with Talk N Text and carved out a solid 11-year career, establishing himself as the first piece in what would become a historically stacked draft class.

2. James Yap – #2 Pick by Purefoods

If there’s one name that defines the 2004 draft class, it’s James Yap. Selected second overall by Purefoods, Yap quickly rose to superstardom with his smooth shooting and clutch performances. He became a 2-time league MVP, won 4 Finals MVPs, and helped his team capture 7 championships, including a Grand Slam in 2013–14. In his best season, he averaged 21.3 points per game, proving his scoring prowess. Beyond the numbers, Yap became a household name and pop culture icon—arguably the most popular PBA player of his generation. His combination of talent, charisma, and big-game performances made him the face of Purefoods and one of the greatest players in league history.

3. Marc Pingris – #3 Pick by Air21

Selected third overall, Marc Pingris brought a level of grit, hustle, and heart that made him a fan favorite and a crucial piece in championship teams. Nicknamed the “Pinoy Sakuragi”, Pingris became an elite defensive player, winning 3 Defensive Player of the Year awards and being named to the All-Defensive Team eight times. He helped Purefoods win 9 championships, including the 2014 Grand Slam, where he served as the emotional leader and defensive anchor. With a best season that featured nearly a double-double average (9.8 points and 9.4 rebounds), Pingris redefined what it meant to be a defensive enforcer in the PBA, earning his place as a cornerstone of the 2004 class.

4. Ranidel De Ocampo – #4 Pick by Air21

Ranidel De Ocampo, the fourth pick, might just be the most versatile player in this stacked draft. Known for his high basketball IQ and deadly shooting range, De Ocampo was a prototypical stretch four before the term became mainstream. His ability to space the floor, pass, and defend made him a nightmare matchup. He averaged 15.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in his best season and won 6 championships with Talk N Text, including a three-peat in the Philippine Cup. A 3-time Mythical First Team selection and 2-time Finals MVP, De Ocampo was a model of consistency and leadership—an elite forward who quietly dominated for years.

5. Sonny Thoss – #5 Pick by Alaska

Rounding out the top five, Sonny Thoss was the silent giant of the 2004 draft class. Picked fifth by Alaska, Thoss spent his entire 15-year career with the franchise, anchoring their interior with tough defense and reliable post scoring. His best season saw him average 12.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Known for his professionalism and loyalty, Thoss helped lead Alaska to 3 championships, earning a Finals MVP in 2013 during their title run. His steadiness in the paint and leadership on and off the court made him a vital part of Alaska's identity for more than a decade.

Why the 2004 PBA Draft Top 5 Is the Greatest of All Time

The numbers speak for themselves. This elite class combined for 29 PBA championships, including multiple MVP and Finals MVP awards. All five players had long, impactful careers ranging from 11 to 19 seasons. Each became the face of a franchise, embodying qualities that Filipino basketball fans hold dear: skill, heart, loyalty, and winning pedigree.

No other draft class in PBA history has matched the 2004 top five in terms of depth, longevity, and cultural impact. From James Yap’s superstar moments to Pingris’ defensive dominance and De Ocampo’s versatility, this group set the gold standard. As the league continues to evolve, the 2004 draft class remains the ultimate benchmark for greatness.

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