Meralco guard Chris Banchero gestures after hitting the first four-point shot in the PBA.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Chris Banchero became the first player to score from the PBA’s highly-discussed four-point line during Meralco’s season-opening game against Magnolia Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Banchero knocked down the 27-foot attempt from the right side with 10:26 left in the second quarter of the Governors’ Cup matchup eagerly anticipated due in most part to the new line which had its share of critics, supporters and those willing to give it a look.
He now becomes part of the PBA lore, joining Joy Dionisio as the first one to score a basket in the league back in 1975 and the iconic Robert Jaworski, who was the first player to knock down a three in 1980.
READ: PBA: Bolick focused on NLEX title bid, not four-pointer
HISTORY! ⚡️⚡️⚡️
Chris Banchero is the first person to sink a four-point shot in the PBA’s newly implemented four-point line. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/r2TS6c54vj
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) August 18, 2024
The long distance jumper came after two unsuccessful tries made by the Bolts courtesy of Chris Newsome in the first quarter and rookie CJ Cansino a few possessions prior to Banchero’s conversion.
Mark Barroca of Magnolia came close to becoming the first midway in the first, but both his feet stepped on the line and was only given a three-pointer.
READ: PBA: Yeng Guiao thinks four-pointer a ‘gimmick,’ still stresses parity
Meralco and Magnolia began the season that had colorful opening rites and a special tribute for athletes who competed in the Paris Olympics.
Boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, both producing bronze medals, were tasked to do the ceremonial toss, with Petecio providing some animated moments with Magnolia’s Russell Escoto and Meralco’s Brandon Bates.