PJ Simon PBA Career Highlights and What Made Him a Basketball Legend

I still remember watching that 2009 PBA game where PJ Simon and the Purefoods TJ Giants faced the Burger King Whoppers. What stood out wasn't just the victory, but how Simon's performance exemplified his entire career - efficient, explosive when needed, and fundamentally sound. The Cowboys, as they were known then, demonstrated that classic Simon-era basketball where they built such a massive lead that the fourth quarter became essentially garbage time. I recall specifically how they hit 12 triples compared to just four from the Turbo Slashers, building that incredible 93-57 lead before naturally easing up in the final quarter where they got outscored 12-20. That game, for me, perfectly captures Simon's approach to basketball - build an insurmountable lead through precision and skill, then manage the game to its conclusion.

What made Simon truly special wasn't just his scoring ability but his incredible basketball IQ. Having followed his career from his early days with Purefoods to his final seasons, I've always been impressed by his decision-making under pressure. He possessed this rare combination of explosive scoring capability and strategic patience that you don't often see in modern basketball. His career statistics speak volumes - averaging around 14.2 points per game during his prime years, with field goal percentages that consistently hovered around 45%. These numbers might not jump off the page for casual fans, but for those of us who understand PBA history, they represent remarkable consistency in a league known for its physicality and defensive intensity.

Simon's legacy extends beyond statistics though. I've always believed his greatest contribution was how he complemented his teammates, particularly James Yap. While Yap often received the spotlight and media attention, Simon provided that steady, reliable scoring option that made defenses pay for overcommitting to stopping Yap. Their partnership reminded me of those classic basketball duos where the whole became greater than the sum of its parts. Simon never seemed bothered by playing second fiddle statistically - he understood that winning required sacrifice, and his team-first mentality became a blueprint for how role players could achieve legendary status through consistency and professionalism.

The technical aspects of Simon's game were what truly separated him from his contemporaries. His mid-range game was, in my opinion, the best in PBA history. He had this effortless-looking jumper that seemed to defy defensive pressure. I remember analyzing game footage and noticing how he maintained perfect form even when contested heavily. His footwork coming off screens was textbook material, and his ability to create separation without excessive dribbling made him incredibly efficient. These skills allowed him to maintain high scoring efficiency throughout his career, even as he lost some athleticism with age.

Looking back at Simon's career highlights, what strikes me most is how he evolved as a player. Early in his career, he relied more on athleticism and raw scoring ability. But as he matured, he developed into a complete offensive player who could read defenses and make the right play consistently. His basketball intelligence seemed to grow exponentially each season. This evolution wasn't accidental - it came from countless hours in the gym and film room, studying opponents and refining his craft. I've spoken with several coaches who worked with him, and they all mention his incredible work ethic and basketball curiosity.

Simon's impact on Philippine basketball extends beyond his playing days. Younger players now study his game footage, particularly his off-ball movement and scoring efficiency. His career serves as a masterclass in how to maximize one's talents through hard work and basketball intelligence. While he may not have accumulated the individual accolades of some contemporaries, his legacy as a winner and consummate professional remains untarnished. The way he conducted himself on and off the court set a standard that current players would do well to emulate. His career reminds us that basketball greatness comes in many forms, and sometimes the most impactful players aren't always the most celebrated.