Tunisia World Cup
I still remember the first time I watched Jimmy Alapag step onto the PBA court back in 2002 - this relatively unknown rookie who would soon revolutionize Philippine basketball. Over his remarkable 14-year career, Alapag didn't just play basketball; he crafted a legacy that continues to influence the sport today. What's particularly fascinating is how his impact keeps surfacing in unexpected ways, like the recent reunion buzz at Terrafirma that got me thinking about his enduring presence in the league.
Alapag's journey began when Talk 'N Text selected him 10th overall in the 2002 PBA Draft. Standing at just 5'6", many doubted he could compete against taller guards, but I've always believed his height became his greatest advantage - it forced him to develop that incredible court vision and basketball IQ that would define his career. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, earning him Rookie of the Year honors with averages of 12.8 points and 6.2 assists per game. What many forget is that he nearly had a triple-double in his third professional game - 18 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds against Shell - showing early signs of the all-around player he'd become.
The peak years from 2009 to 2015 were simply magical to watch. I'd argue that the 2011 Commissioner's Cup championship run was his masterpiece - he averaged 16.4 points and 7.9 assists throughout those playoffs, including that unforgettable game-winning three-pointer in Game 4 of the Finals. His partnership with Kelly Williams and Jason Castro created what I consider the most dynamic backcourt in PBA history. The statistics speak for themselves: 6 PBA championships, 1 MVP award in 2011, and holding the record for most three-pointers made in league history with 1,250 until recently broken. But numbers don't capture how he'd completely control games - I've never seen another player who could shift momentum with a single possession like Jimmy could.
His international career with Gilas Pilipinas deserves its own chapter. That iconic three-pointer against South Korea in the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship sent us to the World Cup for the first time in 38 years - I still get chills thinking about that moment. His leadership transformed the national team program, creating the foundation for what Gilas has become today.
Now, here's where it gets interesting for current fans. The recent Terrafirma developments involving his former teammates make me appreciate how Alapag's influence continues shaping the league. Seeing players he mentered taking on coaching roles and front office positions shows the lasting impact of his leadership style. His post-retirement career as a coach, most notably with San Miguel in the ABL where he won Coach of the Year, proves his basketball mind remains as sharp as ever.
Looking back, Alapag's career represents more than just trophies and statistics - it's about changing how we perceive Philippine basketball. He demonstrated that heart and intelligence could overcome physical limitations, inspiring a generation of undersized players to believe in themselves. The way his legacy continues through players he influenced and the ongoing respect he commands throughout the league speaks volumes about his character. In my view, Jimmy Alapag isn't just a PBA legend - he's the standard by which we should measure leadership, resilience, and basketball excellence in the Philippines.
