If we are going to use a single type of player arch to define the current era of basketball, I think majority of us will point to the stretch bigs.
They can also be called as the shooting bigman. For the majority of the life of the sports, tall and big players are pushed to play inside.
That is not the case today. And in the PBA, I think these are currently the top 5 bigs.
Let us simplify the definition of a bigman as a player who can play the center position in a serious game and span and is credible from beyond the arc.
#5 Jewel Ponferada
If you are a Rain or Shine player, it is a must that you are willing to take three-pointers. This the reason why it is not shocking that Ponferada is attempting long bombs. His efficiency is improving though, pushing him into one of the position in this ranking.
#4 Troy Rosario
In terms of efficiency, there is nothing to be so amazed of with Troy. He has struggled in the last few years, failing to hit better than 30% of his takes in the last five conferences. But in the early part of his career, he was lethal and even reached more than two three-pointers made per game in multiple tournaments.
#3 Jamie Malonzo
The biggest criticism of the Ginebra fans with the acquisition of Malonzo is the reality that Ginebra gave up their best shooter in Arvin Tolentino. What they failed to realize is that they are getting a 6'7 who is an effective three-point shooter. Yes, Jamie is not efficient but teams should respect him because he can make those long bombs.
#2 Beau Belga
Belga has been known as a stretch bigman for almost his entire stay in Rain or Shine. Efficiency wise, he was never at the top of the list. But in terms of stretching the floor, reputation is also very important. And Belga is at the top for that.
#1 Aldrech Ramos
It can be argued that Aldrech is currently the most underrated center in the league. He is an effective rim protector and has three tournaments in the last three years with 40% plus efficiency from beyond the arc. I mean, people are calling guards and wings with below 35% efficiency as elite shooter. So, how should we call a 6'6 who can make better than 40%?
Aldrech is a monster that is deserving of getting a role in a legit team. I just hope that he can be one last stretch of going for championships.
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