As I sit down to analyze Jason Brickman's potential in the upcoming PBA draft, I can't help but reflect on how the landscape of Philippine basketball has evolved over the years. Having followed the league closely since the early 2000s, I've witnessed numerous international players attempt to make their mark in this fiercely competitive environment. Brickman's case particularly intrigues me because he represents a different breed of point guard - one that could potentially revolutionize how the game is played in the PBA if given the right opportunity.

The recent movement of coaching personnel between teams actually gives us some interesting clues about how franchises are thinking about player development. When Tenorio moved to the Hotshots, he didn't come alone - he brought Kirk Collier with him, creating a coaching dynamic that understands both international and local basketball philosophies. This kind of coaching staff movement signals that teams are looking for fresh perspectives, which could work in Brickman's favor. From my perspective, having watched Collier's work with Ginebra, his approach to the game could align well with Brickman's unique skill set. The question isn't just whether Brickman has the talent, but whether the right coaching staff will recognize how to maximize his abilities within the PBA's distinctive style of play.

Looking at the raw numbers from Brickman's international career, they're nothing short of impressive. During his time in the ASEAN Basketball League, he averaged around 9.8 points and 8.7 assists per game, but these numbers don't tell the whole story. What makes him special is his basketball IQ - something I've rarely seen in players coming into the PBA from overseas. His court vision reminds me of some of the great PBA point guards of the past, but with a modern twist that could really shake things up. However, I must admit I'm somewhat biased toward players who prioritize playmaking over scoring, so perhaps I'm seeing more potential here than others might.

The physical aspect of Brickman's game does concern me when considering the PBA's demanding schedule. At 6 feet tall and approximately 180 pounds, he's not exactly what you'd call physically dominant by PBA standards. Having watched countless draft prospects over the years, I've seen many talented players struggle with the league's physicality. Teams will definitely look at his defensive capabilities with a critical eye, and rightfully so. But here's where my experience tells me something different - sometimes, a player's understanding of positioning and anticipation can overcome physical limitations, and Brickman has demonstrated that quality in spades during his international appearances.

What really excites me about Brickman's potential draft scenario is the timing. The PBA has been gradually embracing a more international style of basketball, and we're seeing teams value different skill sets than they did five years ago. The fact that we're discussing an Asian-American player with his particular background being seriously considered for the draft shows how much the league has evolved. I remember when international players were mostly looked at for their scoring prowess alone, but now teams are recognizing the value of pure playmakers.

The coaching carousel that brought Tenorio and Collier to the Hotshots creates an interesting potential landing spot for Brickman. From what I've observed, Collier's offensive systems tend to emphasize ball movement and player mobility - exactly the kind of environment where Brickman could thrive. If I were making the decision, I'd seriously consider using a late first-round or early second-round pick on him, though I suspect some teams might be hesitant due to his unconventional profile. The risk-reward calculation here is fascinating - you're potentially getting a game-changing facilitator, but one who doesn't fit the traditional mold of a PBA import or even a local star.

Having spoken with several scouts and team officials throughout the season, I get the sense that opinions on Brickman are divided. Some see him as the missing piece that could transform an offense, while others question whether his skills will translate against PBA-level athleticism. My take? I think he's worth the gamble. The league has seen successful players who defied conventional wisdom before, and Brickman could be the next in that line. His understanding of pace and ability to control the game's tempo could be invaluable for teams looking to establish a distinct identity.

As draft day approaches, I'm keeping a close eye on which teams have been doing their due diligence on international prospects. The organizations that have been expanding their scouting networks beyond traditional sources are more likely to see the value in a player like Brickman. It's not just about drafting the best available talent anymore - it's about finding players who fit specific system needs and can contribute in unique ways. From where I sit, Brickman represents an opportunity for forward-thinking teams to gain a strategic advantage.

Ultimately, my prediction is that Brickman will be selected, though probably later than his talent alone would dictate. The PBA draft has surprised us before, and I have a feeling we might see one team take a chance on him that others wouldn't. The league's continued globalization, coupled with coaching shifts like the Tenorio-Collier move to the Hotshots, creates an environment where unconventional choices are becoming more common. While nothing is guaranteed in the unpredictable world of basketball drafts, I believe Brickman's unique skill set will be too tempting for at least one team to pass up entirely.

LIGHTING, LIGHTING, AND MORE LIGHTING
People are typically drawn to bars solely based on their atmosphere. The best way to knock your next commercial bar design out of the park is using the perfect amount and type of lighting. Use standout light fixtures as their very own statement piece, track lighting for adjustable ambiance, hanging pendant lights over tables, and ambient backlighting to display the alcohol. Bartenders need to serve and customers need to order, so make sure it’s just functional as it is attractive. 

CHOOSING YOUR BARTOP
What may seem so obvious, is often so overlooked in commercial bar design- the material of your actual bartop itself. While we realize stone and marble are as classy and elegant-looking as can be, the reality is that they just aren’t your best option for a durable and long lasting bartop. They crack, have no grip, and break way too many glasses. Opt for a high-quality wood bar instead. Oaks, maples, mahoganies, and ashes are sturdy and provide your customers with a firm grip for their glasses. 

THEME 
In a sea of millions upon millions of bars, how can you make your commercial bar design stand apart from the rest? The answer is to pick a unique, centralized theme and run with it. Whether it’s your next sit-down restaurant bar design, or remodeling the small, locally-favorite gem, you have to find out what your clientele wants. Survey the neighborhood of your establishment and find out what the demographics are there. Maybe a gritty, western bar would be a hit. Or maybe a more modern, sleek design is what’s missing in the area. Whatever theme you decide upon, hit it out of the park with the perfect lighting, wall art, music, and furniture. It’s all in the details. 

THE GUIDE TO YOUR NEXT RESTOBAR 
You’ve got the food, you’ve got the restaurant, you’ve got the customers, now all you need is a beautifully designed bar to top it all off.  Small bar designs for restaurants have a tendency to be a little thrown together and incohesive with the rest of the establishment. Stay on brand- create consistency with tying in the same color scheme, furniture, art, and overall ambiance of the pre-existing restaurant. Make sure the placement of your bar makes sense as well, have it in a place where it’s visible and easy to navigate but not in the way of servers and other guests. If the bar is going to serve food, be sure to consider the location of the kitchen to not obstruct traffic flow. Consider all of these small tips as you work through your next restaurant bar design. 

SPACE CONSTRAINT 
It’s no secret that bars have the reputation of being a little cramped, and in some cases- way too cramped. Consider all of the space constraints while designing your next commercial bar design and we can change that bad rap that bars have been holding for far too long. First and foremost, be sure to measure your bar, barstool, cabinet, and equipment height. Generally, a bar is 42” in height while a stool is 30” in height. Also be sure to allow at least 3’ of space between the bar and the alcohol for the bartender’s functionality and efficiency. Consider multiple register and drink-making stations for bartenders as well. Allowing 2’ between patrons is going to give them enough space to eat and drink, and most importantly, simply be comfortable. All of these considerations are especially helpful if it is a restaurant bar design, where the space is even more valuable.