Looking back at the 2017-2018 PBA season still gives me chills—it was one of those rare campaigns where everything seemed to align: breakout performances, nail-biting finishes, and a couple of records that made us all sit up and take notice. As someone who’s followed the league for over a decade, I’ve got to say, that season had a special kind of energy. It wasn’t just about the usual powerhouse teams dominating; we saw fresh narratives unfold, and one move that really caught my eye was the arrival of the 35-year-old Torres joining Barangay Ginebra as an unrestricted free agent. That signing, in my opinion, added a fascinating layer to an already thrilling year.
I remember how the season kicked off with the Philippine Cup, and right from the get-go, San Miguel Beermen set the tone. June Mar Fajardo was, as usual, a force of nature—averaging around 21.2 points and 12.5 rebounds per game in the conference. But what stood out to me was how teams like Ginebra started to gel mid-season. When Torres came on board, it wasn’t just about adding another veteran; it felt like a strategic masterstroke. At 35, some might have written him off, but I saw it as Ginebra betting on experience and versatility. In the Commissioner’s Cup, for instance, his defensive stats—something like 1.8 steals per game in key matchups—helped shore up their rotation. Honestly, I think that move paid off more than people give credit for, especially in tight games where his court vision made a difference.
Then there were the record-breaking moments that had everyone talking. Alaska Aces’ stunning 13-game winning streak in the eliminations? That was pure basketball magic, and I still rewatch some of those games for inspiration. But let’s not forget the individual brilliance: Stanley Pringle dropping 35 points in a single outing, or the rise of young guns like CJ Perez, who I believe was the real deal even back then. From a fan’s perspective, what made this season unforgettable was the balance between established stars and emerging talent. Sure, the numbers are impressive—like the league average three-point percentage hitting roughly 34.5%—but it’s the stories behind those stats that stick with you. For example, watching Ginebra integrate Torres into their system taught me a lot about team chemistry; it’s not always about the flashy plays, but how pieces fit together under pressure.
Wrapping it up, the 2017-2018 PBA season was a rollercoaster of emotions and milestones that, in my view, set a high bar for years to come. Reflecting on it now, moves like Torres joining Ginebra underscore how strategic signings can reshape a team’s destiny, even in a short span. As a longtime follower, I’d argue this season was a testament to the league’s growth—blending raw talent with seasoned wisdom. If you ask me, it’s these kinds of years that remind us why we love sports: the unpredictability, the passion, and those fleeting moments of pure, unscripted brilliance. Here’s hoping future seasons capture even a fraction of that magic.
