One of the biggest names expected to headline the PBA Season 51 Rookie Draft may no longer hear his name called.
Mike Phillips, widely regarded as one of the most coveted prospects in this year’s class, is reportedly headed overseas after agreeing to a lucrative three-year contract with a team in Japan’s B.League, a move that could dramatically alter the complexion of the upcoming draft.
The development not only signals a major career decision for the former De La Salle standout but also leaves the San Juan Knights scrambling to recover from the unexpected departure of one of their cornerstone players in the middle of a strong MPBL campaign.
San Juan team manager Jun Usman confirmed that Phillips has already parted ways with the club, expressing disappointment over how the separation unfolded.
“Sadly, he left us. What’s unfair is he didn’t even have the balls to talk to us. It was only his brother Ben who informed us of his sudden departure,” said Usman.
According to San Juan, Phillips’ contract included an opt-out clause that allowed him to pursue overseas opportunities. Sources added that his reported B.League deal includes a seven-figure monthly salary along with benefits such as a fully furnished condominium, a dedicated service vehicle, and business-class travel.
While the Knights acknowledged Phillips exercised a provision in his contract, Usman lamented that the organization was caught off guard by the timing and manner of his exit.
“It was so unprofessional of him,” he said. “At nakakalungkot lang na nangyari ito at a time na mismong si Sen eh may pinagdadaanan.”
“Sobrang unfair lang nito sa amin kasi binigla na kami, parang iniwan kami sa ere. Pano kami ngayon,” Usman, whose team owns an impressive record of 14 wins and 1 loss, added.
San Juan officials also revealed that communication with Phillips became difficult following his recent stint with Gilas Pilipinas during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Australia.
Under B.League regulations, his appearance for the Philippine national team qualifies him for Asian Quota eligibility, making him an attractive target for clubs in Japan’s top division.
Usman said the organization repeatedly attempted to reach Phillips before eventually receiving confirmation of his decision through his brother.
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【現地報道】
代表マイク・フィリップス（203cm/24歳）がBリーグチームと3年契約
W杯予選vs
では24min 6P 14Rを記録 pic.twitter.com/UMNwHGnlHc
— アルミホイルくん
(@GOSSHIP7) July 12, 2026
“Wala, hindi na siya sumasagot sa amin. Ilang tawag at text na ang ginagawa namin, until recently, yung kapatid pa n’ya na si Ben ang nagsabi sa amin na they are terminating their contract [under the opt-out clause],” he said.
Phillips has been one of the MPBL’s most productive big men this season, averaging 8.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game while anchoring one of the league’s top teams.
His impact was perhaps most evident in San Juan’s statement victory over defending champion Abra Solid North Weavers last May, when he played a key role in a crucial 66-58 triumph that strengthened the Knights’ title aspirations.
Despite expressing frustration over the circumstances, Usman acknowledged that Phillips leaves a significant void on the roster.
“Malaking bagay talaga sa amin si Mike pero ano pa ba ang magagawa namin,” said Usman. “Pero para sa amin, sana man lang nagpaalam ng maayos. Nagkaroon man lang sana kami ng chance na makahirit for him to stay.”
The San Juan executive also maintained that the organization fulfilled its commitments to the high-flying forward, noting that Phillips received his compensation on time through the support of the team’s financial backers.
Should the reported B.League move push through, Phillips would forgo the PBA Rookie Draft altogether and instead continue his rapid rise on the international stage, marking another high-profile Filipino talent choosing an overseas opportunity before beginning a professional career in the PBA.
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