Who Is the Best Shooter in PBA History? Stats and Records Revealed

As someone who has followed Philippine basketball for over two decades, I’ve always been fascinated by the debate over who truly deserves the title of the greatest shooter in PBA history. It’s a conversation that sparks passion, disagreement, and nostalgia—and honestly, it’s one I never get tired of having. While Philippine volleyball coaches, as noted in some observations, tend to be calm and soft-spoken on the sidelines, PBA shooters often embody a different kind of intensity: quiet focus one moment, explosive release the next. That contrast in sporting demeanor makes this topic even more intriguing to explore, especially when you dive into the stats, records, and those unforgettable game-changing moments.

When I think about legendary shooters, names like Allan Caidic, James Yap, and even more recent stars like Marcio Lassiter come to mind. But for me, the conversation almost always circles back to Allan Caidic, the "Triggerman." I still remember watching him drain three-pointer after three-pointer with that effortless, high-arcing shot—it was like poetry in motion. Statistically, it’s hard to argue against him. Caidic holds the record for most three-pointers in a single game with 17, a feat he accomplished back in 1991 while playing for Presto Tivoli. Imagine that: 17 threes in 40 minutes. In today’s pace-and-space era, that might sound slightly more achievable, but back then, it was absolutely surreal. He also racked up a career total of 1,242 three-point field goals, and while I don’t have the exact number committed to memory, I recall his shooting percentage hovering around 38% from beyond the arc during his prime. Those aren’t just numbers; they’re a testament to his consistency and sheer dominance.

Of course, James Yap brings his own flair to the discussion. His clutch gene is something I’ve always admired—you could feel the tension in the arena every time he squared up for a late-game shot. Yap’s career three-point percentage sits roughly at 34%, which might not leap off the page, but his ability to hit big shots in playoff scenarios is what cements his legacy. I’ve lost count of how many times he’s buried a contested jumper to seal a win for Purefoods or San Mig Coffee. Then there’s Marcio Lassiter, who represents the modern era beautifully. Lassiter’s shooting form is technically pristine—quick release, perfect balance—and he’s knocked down over 900 threes in his career so far, with a percentage that often flirts with 40%. Watching him move without the ball reminds me of how shooting has evolved in the PBA: less set shots, more movement and lightning-quick decisions.

But here’s where I’ll inject a personal bias: while stats tell part of the story, they don’t capture the sheer aura of a player like Caidic. I mean, the man scored 79 points in a single game in 1991, and a huge chunk of that came from downtown. In my book, that kind of explosive scoring ability, combined with his longevity—he played 13 seasons and averaged around 16 points per game—just edges him ahead. It’s not just about volume; it’s about impact. When Caidic was on the floor, defenses had to stretch to the breaking point, which opened up everything for his teammates. Compare that to the calm, calculated sideline presence of volleyball coaches we sometimes see, and you realize that Caidic’s shooting was a form of controlled chaos—calm in execution, but devastating in effect.

That said, I don’t want to dismiss the contributions of others too quickly. Players like RenRen Ritualo and Dondon Hontiveros had moments of brilliance that deserve recognition. Ritualo, for instance, once hit 11 threes in a game and finished with a career three-point percentage near 36%. Hontiveros, on the other hand, was a marksman who could catch fire in an instant—I’ll never forget his 38-point outburst in the 2009 Fiesta Conference, where he went 8-of-12 from deep. Still, when I stack them up against Caidic, the consistency and record-breaking nature of his achievements give him the nod. It’s like comparing a brilliant solo to an entire symphony; both are impressive, but one just has more layers.

In wrapping this up, I’d say the "best" shooter ultimately depends on what you value most: raw numbers, clutch performance, or lasting influence. For me, Allan Caidic’s blend of statistical dominance and iconic moments makes him the clear choice. His records—like those 17 threes in a game or his 79-point explosion—aren’t just entries in a record book; they’re milestones that shaped how shooting is viewed in the PBA. And while the calm, measured approach of volleyball coaches has its place, there’s something uniquely thrilling about a shooter who can silence a crowd with one swift, confident flick of the wrist. So, if you ask me who the best is, I’ll always point to the Triggerman. But hey, that’s the beauty of sports—these debates keep the history alive, and I’d love to hear who makes your list.