Converge Swaps Bryan Santos, No. 8 Pick for Phoenix’s No. 2 in PBA Draft

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by Lou Reyes

Former Converge big man Bryan Santos (26).
Former Converge big man Bryan Santos (26). Photo. PBA Images.

The Converge FiberXers aren’t slowing down — they just pulled off another major shake-up ahead of the 2025 PBA Draft.

On Friday, the league approved a deal sending Bryan Santos and Converge’s No. 8 overall pick to the Phoenix Fuel Masters. In return, the FiberXers secured the No. 2 overall pick this year plus a second-rounder in 2026.

This blockbuster comes hot on the heels of Converge’s three-team swap that saw Larry Muyang land in their lineup while Jeo Ambohot moved to NorthPort and Evan Nelle went to Phoenix. Clearly, the FiberXers are going all-in on draft weekend.

Why all the fireworks? Converge is reportedly eyeing Juan Gomez de Liano, hoping he’s still on the board when they use their newly-acquired No. 2 selection. With Terrafirma Bossing holding the top pick on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, all eyes will be on how the first round unfolds.

For Phoenix, the move gives them added depth and a versatile piece in Santos. Drafted 14th overall in 2023, the 6-foot-5 forward has shown flashes as a floor-spacer but averaged just 4.3 points per game in the last Philippine Cup. A change of scenery might just be what he needs to unlock his potential.

Bryan Santos.
Bryan Santos. Photo: Facebook.

Meanwhile, Converge has positioned itself as one of the most aggressive teams of the offseason — flipping assets, reshuffling its roster, and making sure it’s in prime position to snag a franchise cornerstone.

Draft drama. Big trades. Rising stars on the move. This is shaping up to be one of the most exciting PBA Draft weekends in recent memory.

Who do you think Converge will land at No. 2? And did Phoenix win big with the Santos deal? Sound off, hoops fans — the countdown to draft night is officially on!