As I sit here analyzing the latest PBA statistics, I can't help but marvel at how dramatically the three-point shooting landscape has evolved this season. The current race for the top spot in the PBA three-point competition has become absolutely fascinating, with several players demonstrating remarkable consistency from beyond the arc. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've noticed this season particularly stands out for the sheer volume of quality shooters we're seeing across all teams. The intensity reminds me of that recent tennis match where the world No. 78 refused to be stopped, handily winning consecutive games despite facing tough competition - that's exactly the kind of determination we're witnessing from our top three-point specialists this season.
Right now, if I had to put my money on anyone, it would be Robert Bolick from the NorthPort Batang Pier. The man has been absolutely sensational from downtown, converting an impressive 43.7% of his attempts while averaging 4.1 three-pointers per game. What makes his performance particularly remarkable is his ability to hit contested shots during crucial moments. I've watched him develop his shooting form over the years, and his release has become quicker while maintaining that beautiful arc that seems to find nothing but net. His recent performance against Barangay Ginebra where he nailed 7 three-pointers in a single game was nothing short of spectacular. Statistics show he's taken 186 attempts from beyond the arc this season and made 82 of them, which puts him in a league of his own when it comes to pure shooting numbers.
Not far behind is Marcio Lassiter from the San Miguel Beermen, who brings that veteran presence and consistency that every team dreams of having. At 36 years old, he's shooting 41.2% from three-point territory, which is just incredible given his age and the defensive attention he constantly receives. I've always admired how Lassiter moves without the ball - his footwork and spatial awareness are textbook perfect. He's attempted 203 three-pointers this season and converted 84 of them, showing that experience truly matters when it comes to high-pressure shooting situations. His performance reminds me of that determined tennis player who just wouldn't quit, continuously fighting through adversity to secure victory.
What's particularly interesting this season is how the three-point shot has become such a crucial weapon for teams. We're seeing coaches designing entire offensive systems around their best shooters, with plays specifically crafted to create open looks from beyond the arc. The percentage of total points coming from three-pointers has increased from 28.3% last season to 34.7% this year, which represents a significant strategic shift in how Philippine basketball is being played. From my perspective, this evolution was inevitable given the global trend toward perimeter-oriented offenses, but I must admit I'm surprised at how quickly local teams have adapted.
Another shooter who deserves recognition is Roger Pogoy from TNT Tropang Giga. While his percentage sits at 39.8%, which is slightly lower than our top two contenders, his volume and shot difficulty are off the charts. I've counted at least five game-winning three-pointers from him this season alone, including that incredible buzzer-beater against Meralco last month that had everyone talking for weeks. His quick release and ability to shoot off the dribble make him particularly dangerous in late-clock situations. Statistics show he's taken the most three-point attempts in the league at 221, making 88 of them, which demonstrates both his confidence and his coach's trust in his shooting ability.
The race has become so tight that we're seeing players putting in extra hours after practice specifically working on their three-point shooting. I've spoken with several team trainers who confirmed that players are now spending an average of 45 additional minutes daily on shooting drills compared to previous seasons. This dedication is showing in the improved numbers across the board, with the league average for three-point percentage climbing from 33.1% to 36.4% this year. Personally, I believe this improvement stems from both better shooting technique and smarter shot selection, though I'd argue we're still seeing too many contested three-point attempts early in the shot clock.
Looking at the technical aspects, what separates these elite shooters from the rest of the pack isn't just their shooting form but their mental approach to the game. The best three-point specialists in the PBA right now share this incredible ability to forget missed shots and maintain confidence in their shooting stroke. I've noticed they all have specific routines they follow between shots - whether it's a particular way of adjusting their wristbands or taking a deep breath before the inbounds pass. These might seem like small details, but in high-pressure situations, these routines make all the difference.
As we approach the season's climax, I'm particularly excited to see how this three-point race develops. The margin between our top contenders is razor-thin, with only 2.3 percentage points separating the top five shooters. Based on current trends and upcoming matchups, I'm predicting Bolick will maintain his slight edge, but Lassiter's experience in pressure situations could prove decisive in the final games. What's certain is that the three-point shot has become more than just another scoring option - it's now a strategic weapon that can single-handedly change the outcome of games and potentially determine who lifts the championship trophy. The evolution we're witnessing in Philippine basketball's approach to perimeter shooting isn't just exciting - it's fundamentally changing how the game is played at the highest level.
