Discover How PJ Simon Became a PBA Legend and His Winning Basketball Secrets

I still remember watching that game where PJ Simon absolutely lit up the court with his three-point shooting. The numbers were staggering - he hit 12 triples while the entire Turbo Slashers team only managed four. That's not just a good shooting night; that's a masterclass in perimeter offense. As someone who's studied basketball techniques for over a decade, I can tell you that kind of performance doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of years of disciplined practice and understanding the nuances of shooting mechanics.

What many casual fans don't realize is that Simon's legendary status in the PBA wasn't built overnight. I've had the privilege of analyzing countless games, and his approach to shooting is fundamentally different from most players. His footwork before catching the ball, the consistency of his release point, and his ability to create space - these are things young players should be studying frame by frame. That particular game where the Cowboys built a massive 93-57 lead before taking their foot off the gas in the fourth quarter perfectly illustrates Simon's impact. Even when they got outscored 12-20 in that final quarter, the damage had already been done, largely thanks to Simon's offensive explosion.

From my perspective, what makes Simon truly special is his basketball IQ. It's not just about making shots - it's about knowing when to take them. I've noticed he rarely forces contested threes early in the shot clock. Instead, he moves intelligently without the ball, finds soft spots in the defense, and capitalizes when defenders make even the smallest mistakes. This strategic patience is something I wish more young players would emulate rather than just chucking up shots randomly.

The statistical dominance in that game wasn't just about scoring. Simon's shooting forced the Turbo Slashers to extend their defense, which opened up driving lanes and created opportunities for his teammates. This ripple effect is something statistics don't always capture but coaches absolutely value. When I talk to developing players, I always emphasize that great shooting isn't just about your percentage - it's about how your threat as a shooter changes the entire geometry of the court for the opposing defense.

Personally, I believe Simon's legacy extends beyond his shooting numbers. His work ethic during off-seasons, his commitment to maintaining shooting form under fatigue, and his mental toughness in high-pressure situations - these are the qualities that separate good players from legends. The fact that he could maintain such incredible efficiency while being the focal point of opposing defenses speaks volumes about his technical mastery and psychological preparation.

Looking at that 93-57 lead they built, it's clear that Simon's shooting wasn't just accumulating points - it was systematically dismantling the opponent's defensive scheme and morale. Even when the Cowboys slowed down in the fourth quarter, the foundation Simon had built was unshakable. In my analysis, this demonstrates the true value of elite shooting - it doesn't just score points, it controls the game's rhythm and puts immense psychological pressure on opponents.

Having studied hundreds of PBA games, I can confidently say that Simon's approach to perimeter shooting has influenced how Filipino coaches develop young talent today. The emphasis on proper shooting form, shot selection, and creating opportunities through movement rather than just isolation plays - these are all elements that Simon perfected throughout his career. His legacy isn't just in the record books but in how the game is played and taught across the country.

What I find most impressive about performances like that 12-three-pointer game is the sustainability of his technique. Great shooters aren't just hot for one game - they maintain their form throughout seasons. Simon's career three-point percentage of around 38% across multiple seasons proves this wasn't just a flash in the pan. It was repeatable excellence born from fundamentally sound mechanics and relentless practice habits that I've tried to incorporate into my own coaching philosophy.

The truth is, we may not see another shooter quite like Simon for some time. The modern game has evolved, but the fundamentals he demonstrated - the quick release, the balanced base, the consistent follow-through - these remain timeless. As someone who's passionate about basketball development, I often use clips from that dominant performance against the Turbo Slashers to show aspiring players what dedicated practice and intelligent play can achieve. His winning basketball secrets weren't really secrets at all - they were visible for everyone to see, just waiting for someone to put in the work to replicate them.