Top 10 PBA Best Imports from the Previous Decade
Billy Ray Bates, Norman Black, Bobby Parks, and Sean Chambers are international players who have left an indelible mark on Philippine basketball. However, in the last ten years, we’ve seen a new generation of prominent imports who have won a particular place in the hearts of fans by their athletic skill and winning mindset.
The PBA has seen the development of remarkable imports that have significantly contributed to Philippine basketball during the last decade. Here are the top ten foreign players:
Justin Brownlee
Justin Brownlee has become a mainstay in Philippine basketball over the last decade, particularly with the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel club. Brownlee joined Ginebra as a substitute during the 2016 Governors’ Cup and has since led the team to three victories, including the 2018 Commissioners’ Cup when he was named Best Import. Brownlee’s consistency and winning mindset have made him an essential element of Ginebra’s success, driving the club to at least the quarterfinals in every tournament he has played.
He’s the one who snap Ginebra an eight-year drought championship!
Paul Harris
Paul Harris, who has a noteworthy résumé and four PBA stints, influenced Talk ‘N Text and Ginebra indelibly. The Syracuse forward’s calm and collected manner complimented the Tropang Texters’ dynamic pair of Jimmy Alapag and Jayson Castro, culminating in a Commissioner’s Cup triumph 2011. Harris’ talents and various skills remain recognized despite being replaced by Brownlee in 2016, demonstrating his significance throughout the years.
AZ Reid
AZ Reid, a 6-foot-5 forward, epitomizes the phrase “resident import” with eight PBA tenure. His talent on both ends of the floor influenced Rain or Shine and, subsequently, San Miguel. Reid, who won Best Import accolades in both the 2011 and 2014 Governors’ Cups, was instrumental in Rain or Shine’s competitiveness and subsequently helped San Miguel win the Governors’ Cup in 2015, breaking a championship drought.
Wayne Chism
Wayne Chism, a Yeng Guiao favorite, played in the PBA for five seasons, winning the Best Import title with Rain or Shine in 2015. Despite obstacles like injuries and team changes, Chism’s remarkable numbers, averaging 25.9 points and 15.8 rebounds, cemented his effect on the field. His contributions will go down in PBA history, particularly in the 2014 Commissioner’s Cup, where he stepped in as a replacement.
Denzel Bowles
Denzel Bowles’ remarkable performance in the 2012 Commissioner’s Cup, when he sank two clutch free throws to send Game Seven into overtime and secure the victory for B-Meg, cemented his place in PBA history. Despite later problems and controversy, Bowles remains one of the decade’s top imports. Rain or Shine’s comeback to the PBA in 2019 illustrates his ongoing significance and connection with Filipino basketball fans.
Marqus Blakely
Marqus Blakely served seven service tours and was instrumental in San Mig Coffee’s historic Grand Slam triumph in 2014. Blakely’s comeback in 2013 culminated in the Best Import title and the championship, following a runner-up performance in the Governors’ Cup in 2012. Despite difficulties with following teams, Blakely’s early contributions to San Mig Coffee’s supremacy cemented his place among the top imports.
Rob Dozier
Rob Dozier’s steadiness and dependability were displayed over his four PBA tours. Dozier averaged 20.4 points and 17.4 rebounds while winning the Best Import award in the 2013 Commissioner’s Cup with Alaska. Dozier’s influence and contributions to his teams, notably Alaska, remain significant despite setbacks, including injuries that derailed his 2019 Commissioner’s Cup campaign.
Eugene Phelps
Known as “El Destructor,” Eugene Phelps excelled at scoring throughout his five seasons with the Phoenix Fuel Masters. His 52-point performance in his Governors’ Cup debut 2016 demonstrated his quick effect. Despite numerous half-century scoring performances, Phelps could not move Phoenix past the quarterfinals. His scoring ability and contributions, particularly in the 2018 Governors’ Cup, which Phoenix won as the two-seed, solidify his status among the top imports.
Allen Durham
Allen Durham, a two-time Best Import winner, left a lasting impression on the Meralco Bolts, guiding them to consecutive Governor’s Cup finals in 2016 and 2017. Durham’s sophisticated play and dependability made him a liked figure in the Meralco camp despite falling short in the championship. Meralco was ousted in the 2018 Governors’ Cup semifinals, but his comeback demonstrated his steadfast dedication.
Michael Madanly
Michael Madanly was one of the most significant Asian immigrants in the PBA throughout two seasons. During the 2015 Governors’ Cup, the Syrian swingman averaged 19.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while playing for NLEX and TNT. Despite his brilliance, Madanly’s and Kwame Alexander’s efforts were in vain as NLEX finished eighth. His return to the Governors’ Cup with TNT in 2016 highlighted his accomplishments, as he helped the club reach the quarterfinals before falling out in four games.
Related News: 5 Forgotten PBA Imports Who Shaped the Commissioner’s Cup.
FAQs
What criteria are used to choose the finest PBA imports?
While there are no widely accepted standards, aspects frequently examined include individual statistics, team accomplishments (championships), effect on the league, fan popularity, and overall legacy.
Are any significant imports that must be added to the top ten?
Without a doubt! Throughout its existence, the PBA has witnessed a plethora of excellent foreigners. Among the numerous honorable mentions are Billy Ray Bates, Bobby Parks, Sean Chambers, Norman Black, Billy Robinson, Kenny Redfield, and Renaldo Balkman.
How has imports' position in the PBA evolved?
Since the beginning of the PBA, imports have played a significant role. They were primarily responsible for scoring and carrying their teams in the early years. Their duties have evolved into leadership, defense, rebounding, and team involvement.
For more updated news about PBA, D-League, and more, visit PBA News, and if you want to bet on PBA, you can visit our PBA Betting Site Reviews that cater to the top 5 Online Betting platforms in the Philippines.
RECENT POST
FOLLOW US ON
