I still remember the first time I saw a PBA game live at the Araneta Coliseum back in 2015. The energy was absolutely electric, but what struck me most was watching June Mar Fajoner dominate the paint - he looked to be the biggest Filipino this side of Roman Gabriel, the old Los Angeles Rams quarterback. That comparison has stuck with me throughout my years covering Philippine basketball, and it perfectly captures the unique physical presence that defines so many PBA legends. Today, as we dive into the recently revealed PBA 40 Greatest Players list, that memory comes flooding back with renewed significance.
The selection committee faced an enormous challenge this year - no referee had ever had a more difficult task than ranking these basketball icons. Having followed the league for over two decades, I can confidently say this was perhaps the most contentious and debated list in PBA history. The inclusion criteria spanned championship impact, individual statistics, longevity, and that intangible quality we Filipinos call "puso" - heart. What fascinates me about this particular ranking is how it balances the old guard with modern era stars, creating a fascinating tapestry of Philippine basketball evolution.
Let's talk about the undeniable top tier first. Ramon Fernandez securing the number one spot feels absolutely right to me - his 19 championships and 18,996 career points represent a level of dominance we may never see again. Close behind him, Alvin Patrimonio's four MVP awards and iconic never-say-die attitude cement his legendary status. I've always had a soft spot for Patrimonio's game - there was something magical about watching him hit those turnaround jumpers in crucial moments. The statistics back up the nostalgia too - he averaged 18.2 points per game throughout his 17-season career, all with Purefoods, showing a loyalty that's become increasingly rare in modern basketball.
The middle portion of the list features some fascinating choices that sparked considerable debate among fans and analysts alike. James Yap at number 14 feels slightly high to me given his recent production decline, but his two MVP awards and countless clutch performances justify the position. What surprised me most was seeing June Mar Fajoner crack the top 20 at number 17 - remarkable when you consider he's still actively playing. His 62.3% field goal percentage last season demonstrates why he belongs among the greats, though I would have placed him slightly lower until he completes more seasons.
Modern fans might question some of the older selections, but having studied game footage from the 70s and 80s, players like William "Bogs" Adornado absolutely deserve their spots. His three scoring titles and two MVP awards came during an era of physical, no-foul-called basketball that would make today's players shudder. The exclusion of some popular contemporary stars like Stanley Pringle did raise eyebrows, but when you compare career achievements, the committee generally got it right. Personally, I would have found room for at least one more pure shooter from the modern era - maybe Marcio Lassiter, whose 1,432 career three-pointers rank third all-time.
What struck me analyzing this list is how it reflects the changing nature of Filipino basketball. The early PBA featured more versatile big men who could handle the ball, while today's game emphasizes specialization. Players like Asi Taulava at number 28 represent that old-school physicality - I'll never forget watching him grab 25 rebounds in a single game against Ginebra back in 2003. The inclusion of Johnny Abarrientos at number 16 highlights the enduring value of court generalship in a league that increasingly prioritizes athleticism over basketball IQ.
The international success factor clearly influenced several selections. Jimmy Alapag's number 23 ranking undoubtedly got a boost from his heroic performances for Gilas Pilipinas, particularly during the 2014 FIBA World Cup. Having covered that tournament firsthand, I can attest to how Alapag's leadership transformed both the national team and how the world viewed Philippine basketball. His 957 career three-pointers don't tell the whole story - it was his willingness to take big shots that truly defined his career.
As I reflect on this comprehensive list, what stands out isn't just the individual brilliance but how these players shaped Philippine basketball culture. From the pioneering days when players held second jobs to the modern era of celebrity athletes, each generation represented here contributed something unique. The debates this list will spark in coffee shops and online forums represent exactly what makes the PBA special - it's not just a league, but part of our national identity. While I might quibble with a few placements, the overall selection captures the essence of Philippine basketball excellence across five decades. This list does more than rank players - it tells the story of how a nation fell in love with basketball, one legendary career at a time.