He has yet to decide if he’ll join the PBA, but that doesn’t prevent some local coaches from taking a look at Filipino-German Christian Standhardinger whom they regarded as possibly one of the top prospects in this year’s draft.
The 6’8″ slotman has been turning heads in his stint for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2017 William Jones Cup in Taiwan. In his first two games, he averaged 13 points and 12.5 rebounds, providing solid presence down-low for the squad.
Multi-titled coaches Norman Black of Meralco and Yeng Guiao of NLEX believe Standhardinger, who is based in Germany, would make an immediate impact in the PBA.
“I have not seen him play yet live, but from what (Meralco and Gilas assistant coach) Jimmy Alapag tells me, he is certainly talented enough to be the No.1 pick,” Black told InterAksyon.
For his part, Guiao, whose NLEX squad has the best chance of securing the No.1 pick, said the 28-year-old would become the “best big man” in the draft should he decide to join the PBA this year.
“He looks like a hardworker with the maturity to make an immediate impact,” Guiao said.
Guiao also didn’t deny the fact that Standhardinger is now in the NLEX’s radar alongside Kiefer Ravena and Ray Parks.
“We are open to anything. Since there is no assurance we will pick No.1. we would like to keep our options open. Right now, we are observing all possible choices. We are watching Kiefer, Standhardinger and Ray Parks and other talents very carefully. It’s too early to say who has the upper hand,” Guiao. said.
