Who Truly Deserves the Title of Best PBA Import of All Time?

Let me be honest with you—when it comes to debating the best PBA import of all time, I get genuinely excited. I’ve followed the league for years, watched countless games, and formed some pretty strong opinions. But this isn’t just about nostalgia or personal favorites; it’s about impact, consistency, and that rare ability to lift a team when it matters most. And while we’re at it, I can’t help but think about how today’s teams—like those in the recent draft order: Terrafirma, Phoenix, Blackwater, NorthPort, NLEX, Magnolia, Meralco, Converge, San Miguel, Rain or Shine, Barangay Ginebra, and TNT—would have benefited from some of the legendary imports we’ve seen over the decades.

I remember watching Sean Chambers dominate in the late ’80s and ’90s, and honestly, it’s hard not to put him near the top of the list. He wasn’t just a scorer; he was a leader. With Alaska, he won six championships, and his partnership with Tim Cone was nothing short of magical. Chambers had this unique blend of strength and basketball IQ that made him almost unstoppable in the paint. If you look at teams like Terrafirma or Blackwater today—franchises that have often struggled to find consistency—you can’t help but wonder what a player like Chambers could have done for them. He didn’t just put up numbers; he elevated everyone around him, something that’s sorely missing in some of the younger squads.

Then there’s Bobby Parks—a name that still resonates with older fans like me. Parks was pure class, a versatile forward who could score, defend, and handle the ball with ease. He won seven Best Import awards, a record that speaks volumes about his sustained excellence. I’ve always felt that Parks set the standard for what an import should be: reliable, professional, and clutch. Imagine him suiting up for a team like Converge or NLEX today. With the way the game has evolved, his skill set would fit perfectly into modern offenses that value spacing and versatility. Parks wasn’t just great; he was consistently great, and that’s a trait that separates the good from the legendary.

But let’s not forget about Norman Black. As a coach and player, Black left an indelible mark on the PBA. He led San Miguel to multiple titles in the ’80s, and his two-way game was something to behold. I’ve always admired players who excel on both ends, and Black was a master of that. He could guard multiple positions, run the floor, and hit big shots when it mattered. Thinking about the current San Miguel squad, which remains a powerhouse, it’s fascinating to see how the legacy of imports like Black still influences the franchise. They’ve always valued players who bring more than just scoring, and that philosophy traces back to legends like him.

Of course, the conversation wouldn’t be complete without mentioning some of the more recent stars. Justin Brownlee, for instance, has become synonymous with Barangay Ginebra’s success in the last few years. His ability to hit clutch shots and his chemistry with local players have made him a fan favorite. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him take over games in the fourth quarter, and it’s that kind of impact that cements a player’s legacy. Brownlee has already won multiple championships with Ginebra, and while he might not have the longevity of a Chambers or Parks yet, his influence is undeniable. If you look at the current draft order, teams like Rain or Shine or Phoenix could use a player with his poise and versatility.

Now, I know some fans might argue for imports like Lew Massey or Cyrus Baguio, but for me, the title of best PBA import of all time has to go to someone who changed the game. And that’s why I lean toward Sean Chambers. His six titles, his leadership, and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations set him apart. I remember one particular game in the 1996 Commissioner’s Cup where he dropped 42 points and grabbed 18 rebounds—just insane numbers. Stats like that aren’t just impressive; they’re historic. And when you consider that he did it against some of the toughest competition the league has ever seen, it’s hard to argue against his legacy.

But here’s the thing: debates like this are what make the PBA so special. There’s no single right answer, and that’s okay. What matters is that these imports left a lasting impact, not just on the record books, but on the fans and the teams they played for. As I look at the current landscape—with teams like Magnolia and Meralco always in the mix—I can’t help but feel that the next great import is just around the corner. Maybe he’s playing overseas right now, waiting for his chance to make history. Or maybe he’s already in the league, quietly building his legacy. Either way, the discussion about who truly deserves the title of best PBA import of all time will continue, and I, for one, am here for it.