Marcio Lassiter's recent rise to the top of the PBA's all-time three-point leaderboard cements his place among the league’s greatest shooters. Surpassing Jimmy Alapag’s 1,250 career threes in fewer games (538 vs. 601) is a feat that showcases Lassiter's efficiency, longevity, and consistency over a stellar 14-year career. Even now, he remains one of the most feared shooters, reflecting his incredible staying power in a league where younger, fresher talents constantly emerge.
But the real question is: Does this achievement put Lassiter in the conversation for the "Greatest of All Time Shooter" in PBA history? The answer is unequivocally yes, but with important caveats, especially when his name is brought up alongside the legendary Allan Caidic.
Lassiter’s efficiency from deep is nothing short of elite, making him a perennial threat throughout his career. His ability to play off-the-ball, navigate screens, and hit shots in transition adds a dynamic edge to his game, often stretching defenses and creating mismatches. Lassiter is also a key reason for San Miguel’s multiple championships during his tenure, and his shooting has often been a decisive factor in the team’s success. He’s never been just a volume shooter; he’s been a smart, effective, and crucial contributor to winning basketball.
However, Caidic's legacy as the GOAT shooter in the PBA is still untouched for several reasons. Nicknamed "The Triggerman" for his deadly shooting accuracy, Caidic wasn’t just a three-point specialist—he was a transcendent scorer. His remarkable single-game performances, where he hit 15 and 17 threes, are records that still stand today. In an era when three-point shooting wasn’t as emphasized as it is now, Caidic’s ability to light it up from beyond the arc was revolutionary. He made it look easy, often carrying his team single-handedly, and his long-range prowess was so feared that defenses had to plan specifically around stopping him.
The modern PBA, with the advent of the four-point line and the increasing reliance on spacing and shooting, is built for players like Lassiter. The game today rewards shooters in ways that it didn’t during Caidic’s time, which makes Caidic’s achievements all the more remarkable. While Lassiter deserves praise for adapting, thriving, and continuing to hit at an elite clip in today’s game, Caidic's otherworldly displays of shooting brilliance—especially without the benefit of modern offensive systems designed to create space—make him the measuring stick for any future contender for the title of the greatest shooter.
In essence, while Marcio Lassiter's career totals and sustained excellence rightfully place him in the GOAT shooter conversation, Allan Caidic remains the bar. Lassiter may hold the statistical crown now, but Caidic’s ability to deliver unimaginable shooting performances in high-pressure games still makes him the best. Lassiter is an all-time great shooter, but for now, Caidic remains the GOAT. Should Lassiter continue to elevate his game as he has done in the past 14 years, especially in the playoffs, the conversation might shift, but until then, Caidic’s throne remains secure.
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