Let me be honest with you from the start—ranking PBA imports isn't just about statistics or championship rings. It's about legacy, impact, and those unforgettable moments that make you jump off your couch. Over the years, I've watched countless games, analyzed player performances, and debated with fellow fans late into the night. Today, I'm putting together my definitive list of the greatest imports in PBA history, and I won’t shy away from saying this is as much about personal admiration as it is about cold, hard facts.
When you think about legendary imports, names like Bobby Parks and Norman Black instantly come to mind. Parks, with his seven Best Import awards, wasn't just a player; he was an institution. I still remember how he carried the Shell Turbo Chargers, blending athleticism with basketball IQ in a way that felt almost unfair to opponents. Then there's Norman Black, who led the San Miguel Beermen to a Grand Slam in 1989. His versatility—whether scoring, defending, or orchestrating plays—set a standard that few have matched. But here's where it gets interesting: while these two often dominate conversations, I've always had a soft spot for Sean Chambers. His relentless energy and loyalty to Alaska Aces made him a fan favorite, and his four championships speak volumes. Sure, he didn’t have the flashiness of some others, but his consistency was something to behold.
Now, let's talk about the current landscape and why the draft order matters more than you might think. The recent draft sequence—Terrafirma, Phoenix, Blackwater, NorthPort, NLEX, Magnolia, Meralco, Converge, San Miguel, Rain or Shine, Barangay Ginebra, and TNT—isn't just a list; it's a blueprint for how teams can build around imports. Take Terrafirma, for example. Picking first in the third round gives them a chance to snag a gem, much like how teams in the past unearthed talents like Justin Brownlee. Brownlee, by the way, is a modern legend in my book. His clutch performances for Barangay Ginebra, including that game-winning three-pointer in the 2016 Governors' Cup, are the stuff of folklore. I’ve lost count of how many times he's rescued Ginebra from the brink, and his synergy with local stars like LA Tenorio is a masterclass in teamwork.
But rankings aren't just about individual brilliance. They're about how an import elevates the entire team. Back in the day, Lew Massey’s stint with Crispa Redmanizers was a perfect example. He didn't just score; he inspired a culture of winning, helping the team secure multiple titles in the late 1970s. Fast-forward to today, and you see similar patterns. San Miguel, sitting ninth in the draft order, has historically leveraged their position to complement imports like AZ Reid, who brought a unique blend of scoring and leadership. Reid’s two Best Import awards are well-deserved, but what impressed me most was his ability to adapt to the physical PBA style without losing his finesse.
On the other hand, some imports shine briefly but leave a lasting impact. I think of Denzel Bowles, who led the B-Meg Llamados to a championship in 2012. His double-double averages—around 24.5 points and 12.8 rebounds per game during that conference—were staggering, and his chemistry with James Yap was pure magic. Yet, in my ranking, I place him just outside the top five because, as incredible as he was, his longevity couldn't match the likes of Parks or Chambers. And let's not forget the underdogs. Teams like Blackwater or Converge, lower in the draft order, have often struck gold with imports who fly under the radar. Remember Michael Hackett? His 103-point game for Ginebra in 1985 is still a record, and it's moments like that which remind us why we love this game.
As I reflect on these giants, I can't help but feel that the debate over the "best" import will never truly be settled. For me, Bobby Parks remains the gold standard, but Justin Brownlee is closing in fast. What sets them apart isn't just talent; it's how they've become part of the PBA's soul. Parks' 7 Best Import awards are a testament to his dominance, while Brownlee's 5 championships with Ginebra highlight his clutch gene. In the end, this list is my tribute to those who've given us countless memories. Whether you agree or not, one thing's for sure: the PBA wouldn't be the same without them.
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