Who Truly Deserves the Title of Best Player of the Game PBA This Season?

As I sat courtside during last night’s PBA semifinal, watching two powerhouse teams trade blows in a game that felt like it could tilt either way until the final buzzer, I found myself reflecting on what it really means to be the season’s best player. The post-game interview with one of the contenders stuck with me—he said, “All the sets were also close today but this time, we were able to get the win.” That statement, simple as it sounds, captures the heart of the debate we’re having this season. It’s not just about stats or highlight reels; it’s about who steps up when everything is on the line, who turns those close sets into victories. Over the years covering the PBA, I’ve seen plenty of talented athletes, but only a handful have that intangible quality—the ability to deliver under pressure, to rally their team when the score is tight and the crowd is roaring. This season, the race for the best player title feels more open than ever, with at least four names consistently popping up in conversations among analysts, fans, and even players themselves.

Let’s start with June Mar Fajardo, the perennial favorite. With six MVP titles under his belt, it’s hard to argue against his dominance. This season, he’s averaging around 18 points and 12 rebounds per game, numbers that are impressive but, honestly, not his absolute peak. What sets June Mar apart, in my view, is his consistency and the way he anchors San Miguel’s defense. I remember a game last month where they were down by five with three minutes left—he didn’t just score; he controlled the paint, disrupted plays, and essentially willed his team to a comeback. But here’s the thing: as much as I respect his legacy, I wonder if we’re sometimes too quick to hand him the crown without considering how the league has evolved. Younger, faster big men are challenging him in ways we haven’t seen before, and while he’s adapted well, there are moments where he seems a step slower. Still, if you value experience and proven clutch performance, June Mar is a solid pick.

Then there’s Scottie Thompson, the do-it-all guard who brings an infectious energy to every game. Statistically, he’s putting up about 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists per outing, but numbers don’t do justice to his impact. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him dive for loose balls or make a crucial steal in the fourth quarter. In one particularly nail-biting match against Ginebra, he was the reason they pulled off a win in overtime—his hustle plays and leadership were just phenomenal. Personally, I lean toward players like Scottie because they elevate everyone around them. He might not have the scoring outbursts of some others, but his all-around game and intangibles are off the charts. That said, his shooting can be inconsistent; there were games where he went 3-for-12 from the field, and in a season where every possession counts, that’s a liability. If the award were based purely on heart and versatility, I’d give it to him in a heartbeat.

Another name that can’t be ignored is Robert Bolick. Offensively, he’s been a revelation this season, dropping 20-plus points in multiple games and hitting big shots when it matters. I recall a stretch in the eliminations where he averaged 24 points over five games, including a 35-point explosion that sealed a playoff spot for his team. His confidence is through the roof—sometimes to a fault, as he’ll take contested shots early in the clock—but you can’t deny his ability to take over games. From my perspective, Bolick embodies that “clutch gene” we all talk about. In close sets, like the one referenced in that interview, he’s often the one demanding the ball and making things happen. However, his defense has been a weak spot; opponents have targeted him in pick-and-roll situations, and it’s cost his team a few wins. If we’re judging solely on offensive firepower, he’s a top contender, but the best player should excel on both ends.

Lastly, let’s talk about Jamie Malonzo, the rising star who’s burst onto the scene with his athleticism and two-way play. He’s averaging roughly 16 points and 7 rebounds, but it’s his defensive versatility that stands out—he can guard multiple positions and has racked up over 1.5 steals per game. In a recent semifinal, he held his matchup to just 30% shooting while contributing key buckets in transition. I have to admit, I’m a bit biased toward players who bring that defensive intensity; it’s often what separates good teams from great ones. Malonzo’s energy is contagious, and he’s improved his three-point shooting to around 36% this season, making him a dual threat. Still, he’s relatively inexperienced, and there have been games where foul trouble or decision-making lapses hurt his team. He’s not quite the finished product, but if the award considered future potential alongside current impact, he’d be in the mix.

Weighing all this, I keep coming back to that idea of turning close sets into wins. For me, the best player this season has to be Scottie Thompson. Sure, his stats might not leap off the page compared to Fajardo’s or Bolick’s, but his overall influence—especially in those tight moments—is undeniable. I’ve seen him change the momentum of games with a single defensive play or a timely assist, and his leadership has been crucial for Ginebra’s success. In a season where margins are razor-thin, as that post-game quote highlights, it’s players like Scottie who make the difference. That’s not to say the others aren’t deserving; Fajardo’s consistency is legendary, Bolick’s scoring is electrifying, and Malonzo’s upside is huge. But if I had a vote, I’d go with the guy who does it all when it matters most. After all, the true mark of a best player isn’t just putting up numbers—it’s ensuring that when the sets are close, you’re the reason your team walks away with the win.