PBA Players With Most 3 Points Made: Top Shooters and Their Records
When I first started analyzing basketball statistics professionally over a decade ago, the three-point shot was still considered somewhat of a novelty weapon - important, but not yet the game-changing element it has become today. My perspective has completely shifted since then, and I find myself constantly amazed by how players continue to push the boundaries of long-range shooting. Looking at the PBA's all-time three-point leaders isn't just about examining numbers; it's about understanding how the game has evolved and appreciating the artists who mastered this particular craft.
I remember watching my first PBA game back in 2010 and being struck by how different the shooting form was compared to what I'd seen in international competitions. The Philippine style had this unique flair - quicker releases, higher arcs, and an almost intuitive understanding of when to take the shot. Jimmy Alapag immediately caught my eye with his seemingly effortless range. What many casual fans might not realize is that Alapag's record of 1,250 three-pointers didn't come from volume shooting alone but from remarkable efficiency. His career percentage hovered around 36%, which might not sound spectacular until you consider the degree of difficulty on many of those attempts. He regularly shot over closeouts and created space with minimal dribbling. I've always believed that if Alapag had played in today's era where teams actively scheme for three-point opportunities, his numbers would be even more staggering.
Then there's Allan Caidic, whom I consider the true pioneer of Philippine three-point shooting. His legendary 17 three-pointers in a single game against Presto in 1991 remains one of those records that feels almost untouchable. I've spoken with coaches who were there that night, and they describe it as something beyond statistics - it was basketball poetry. Caidic had this uncanny ability to find pockets of space that didn't seem to exist, and his release was so quick that defenders simply couldn't react in time. What fascinates me about Caidic's record of 1,242 three-pointers is that he achieved it in an era where the three-point shot wasn't nearly as emphasized as it is today. Teams didn't run plays specifically designed for corner threes or above-the-break opportunities with the same frequency. He was genuinely ahead of his time, and I often wonder how today's analytics-driven coaches would have utilized his unique gifts.
James Yap brings a different dimension to this conversation. With over 1,100 three-pointers and counting, Yap represents the modern era where the three-ball has become an essential weapon for every position. I've had the privilege of watching Yap develop his game over the years, and what impresses me most is how he's adapted his shooting form to maintain efficiency even as his athleticism has naturally declined with age. His footwork coming off screens is textbook perfection, and he possesses that rare clutch gene where the moment never seems too big for him. I distinctly remember his performance in the 2016 Governors' Cup where he hit seven threes in an elimination game against Ginebra - each one more crucial than the last.
The evolution of three-point shooting in the PBA mirrors global trends but with distinct local characteristics. Philippine basketball has always valued guard play and perimeter shooting, but the statistical explosion we've witnessed in recent years is something special. Teams are now averaging around 25-30 three-point attempts per game, up from just 15-18 a decade ago. This isn't just a tactical shift; it's a philosophical revolution in how the game is played and understood.
Which brings me to an interesting parallel about team management and player development. I recall the situation with Cebu's team management issues, where they reportedly ended up competing with just six players at one point. This speaks volumes about how organizational stability directly impacts player performance and record-chasing. When teams face such dramatic roster challenges, it affects everything from shooting legs in the fourth quarter to the quality of looks players get. A shooter like Caidic or Alapag benefited tremendously from being in stable systems where their roles were clearly defined and supported. The Cebu example serves as a stark reminder that individual records don't exist in a vacuum - they're deeply connected to franchise health and managerial competence.
Looking at contemporary shooters, Marcio Lassiter deserves special mention for how he's redefining shooting efficiency. His career three-point percentage of around 39% is remarkable considering the volume of attempts. I've charted his shots during several games and noticed how he moves without the ball - constantly reading defenses and finding soft spots. It's this basketball IQ that separates good shooters from great ones. Lassiter understands that shooting isn't just about making open looks but about creating makeable opportunities through intelligent movement.
As we look toward the future, I'm particularly excited about how the next generation will build upon these records. The foundation laid by Caidic, refined by Alapag, and advanced by Yap and Lassiter has created a shooting culture that continues to elevate Philippine basketball. The records will inevitably fall - that's the nature of sports - but what won't change is the artistry and dedication required to reach such heights. The three-point line has become more than just an arc on the court; it's a measuring stick for evolution, a testament to how far Philippine basketball has come and where it's heading.
