Who is the Best 3 Pointer in PBA History? A Statistical Analysis
As I sat courtside during last week’s PBA Finals, watching a clutch three-pointer sail through the net in the dying seconds of overtime, it got me thinking—who really is the greatest three-point shooter in PBA history? I’ve been following the league since the early 2000s, and while everyone has their favorite, I wanted to dig deeper than nostalgia or highlight reels. So I spent the last few days crunching numbers, rewatching old games, and talking to former players and analysts. Let’s be honest, debating the "best" is part of the fun of being a basketball fan, but this time, I’m approaching it with stats as my guide.
The Philippine Basketball Association has seen its fair share of snipers over the decades, from the pioneers in the 80s to the modern-day specialists who launch from way beyond the arc. Names like Allan Caidic, James Yap, and Jimmy Alapag often dominate these conversations, and for good reason. Caidic, nicknamed "The Triggerman," was practically a legend in his era—a pure shooter with a quick release and ice in his veins. But numbers don’t lie, and neither does context. When you look at three-point percentage, volume, and impact in crucial games, the picture gets more nuanced. For example, Caidic shot a remarkable 38.5% from deep during his prime in the 90s, but he also played in an era with less defensive pressure on the perimeter compared to today.
Now, let’s talk about Jimmy Alapag. The "Mighty Mouse" wasn’t just a leader; he was a threat from downtown, especially in big moments. I’ll never forget his performance in the 2013 Commissioner’s Cup Finals—he hit six threes in Game 6, sealing the title for Talk 'N Text. Statistically, he made over 1,200 three-pointers in his career at around 36% accuracy. But here’s where it gets interesting: when you adjust for pace and defensive schemes, Alapag’s efficiency in clutch situations stands out. He didn’t just shoot; he made shots when it mattered most. And that’s something raw percentages can’t fully capture.
Then there’s James Yap, the "Big Game James" who’s known for his smooth stroke and ability to score in bunches. Yap has hit more than 900 threes in his career, and his longevity is impressive—he’s been a reliable option for years. But if I’m being honest, while his form is textbook, his consistency from beyond the arc hasn’t always been elite. In seasons where he shot above 35%, he was unstoppable, but there were slumps too. That’s why this analysis isn’t just about totals; it’s about sustained excellence under pressure.
Speaking of pressure, that brings me to a key point in this discussion: the championship stage. As one veteran coach once told me, "The hard part was putting together that championship bout." It’s one thing to sink threes in the eliminations, but doing it in the finals separates the good from the great. Take Allan Caidic’s 1990 season, where he averaged 4.5 threes per game in the playoffs and led Presto to a title. Or more recently, Marcio Lassiter’s run with San Miguel—he’s shot over 40% from deep in multiple finals series. Lassiter might not have the same volume as others, but his accuracy in high-stakes games is hard to ignore. Personally, I lean towards players who elevate when the lights are brightest, and that’s why I think this debate needs to weigh playoff performance heavily.
I reached out to a few experts to get their take, and the opinions were split. Coach Chot Reyes, whom I’ve interviewed a couple of times, emphasized the evolution of the game. "In the past, shooters had more time to set up," he said. "Today, defenses are smarter, so a guy like Paul Lee who can create his own shot from three is invaluable." On the other hand, stats analyst Miguel Flores pointed out that if we’re going purely by numbers, Caidic’s peak efficiency—hitting 43% in the 1991 season—is untouchable. But he also noted that modern players like RR Pogoy are closing the gap, thanks to better training and spacing. Pogoy, for instance, has already nailed over 500 threes in just a few seasons, shooting at a solid 37% clip.
From my perspective, though, it’s not just about percentages or totals—it’s about legacy. I remember watching Alapag hit that iconic three against Ginebra in 2014, and the arena erupted like I’ve never seen before. Those moments stick with you. So, in my book, the best 3 pointer in PBA history has to be someone who combined volume, accuracy, and clutch factor. While Caidic’s numbers are jaw-dropping, Alapag’s leadership and big-game nerves give him a slight edge for me. But hey, that’s the beauty of basketball—we can argue about this forever.
In the end, answering "Who is the Best 3 Pointer in PBA History? A Statistical Analysis" isn’t just about cold, hard stats. It’s about stories, memories, and the sheer thrill of the game. Whether you’re Team Caidic, Alapag, or a dark horse like RenRen Ritualo, one thing’s for sure: the PBA has been blessed with incredible shooters who’ve shaped how we enjoy basketball. As the league continues to evolve, I can’t wait to see who’s next to carry that torch. Maybe in a few years, we’ll be having this same conversation about a new name.
