Fans, coaches, and league staff were taken by surprise when the PBA’s Board of Governors quickly approved the four-point shot, set to be implemented immediately in Season 49.
The decision, made during the league’s annual board meeting, was met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a gimmick and others concerned about how it might drastically alter strategies.
PBA Vice Chairman Alfrancis Chua addressed these concerns, questioning why they were raised outside the proper channels.
“When we decided, all of us na governors, walang humindi, unanimous,” said the San Miguel Corporation sports director.
“Gusto namin ‘yung four-point shot na ‘yun. Now, iba-iba ang opinion. Ang daming nagsabi, ganito, bakit ganyan, bakit hindi sa amin sinabi.”
Chua emphasized that shooting from the 27-foot line and beyond is not a requirement.
“It’s only a line. Eh di wag n’yo gamitin. Linya lang ‘yun eh. Hindi naman sinabi na sa isang quarter, kailangan tumira kayo ng tatlong beses diyan. Wala naman ganun eh,” he added.
Meanwhile, PBA Chairman Ricky Vargas hinted at additional innovations being considered for the league’s 50th season.
“There are two or three rules that we are studying that would probably change the way basketball will be played,” said Vargas.
“Sabi nga nila, if you do not innovate, you die. So that’s why we decided to innovate. Your PBA is going to innovate with the fans in mind.”
According to multiple league sources, the innovations under consideration include awarding three points to a team that scores within the first eight seconds of a change of possession—a concept inspired by the former Metropolitan Basketball Association’s ‘blitz three,’ but extended by four seconds.
Another proposal involves allowing a team to choose a “free” three-point attempt in exchange for two free throws during a penalty foul.
Chua stressed that these changes are intended to enhance the league for the fans.
“Sa amin, as governors, kasama si Commissioner (Willie) Marcial, hindi naman kami magiimbento para pumangit ‘yung liga. Sa amin, ginagawa namin ito para gumanda ang liga, magkaroon ng, sinabi nga ni Chairman, entertainment,” said Chua.
“’Yung mga naiisip namin, this is all good for the league.”
