PJ Simon's PBA Career Highlights and What Made Him a Legend

When I look back at PJ Simon's illustrious PBA career, one game always stands out in my memory - that incredible performance where he hit 12 triples against the Turbo Slashers. I remember watching that game live, and even now, years later, the memory gives me chills. The sheer dominance displayed by Simon and the Cowboys that night wasn't just about winning; it was about making a statement. They led by such a massive margin - 93-57 at one point - that they could afford to slow down in the fourth quarter, where they got outscored 12-20. But that final quarter didn't matter because Simon had already cemented his legacy long before the final buzzer.

What made Simon truly special, in my opinion, was his ability to perform when it mattered most. That game against the Turbo Slashers perfectly illustrates why he became a legend. While other players might have taken their foot off the gas with such a commanding lead, Simon maintained his intensity throughout. His 12 three-pointers weren't just random shots - each one seemed calculated, precise, and devastating to the opponent's morale. I've always believed that great players don't just score points; they break spirits, and Simon was a master at this psychological aspect of the game. The way he moved without the ball, his quick release, and that uncanny ability to find open spaces - these weren't just skills he was born with but attributes he honed through countless hours of practice.

The statistics from that memorable game tell only part of the story. Yes, the numbers are impressive - 12 triples against the Turbo Slashers' mere four, that massive 36-point lead - but what the box score doesn't show is Simon's leadership on the court. Having followed his career closely, I can attest that his influence extended far beyond scoring. He was the team's emotional anchor, the player who could settle everyone down when things got chaotic. Even during that fourth-quarter slowdown, when the Cowboys got outscored 20-12, you could see Simon directing traffic, encouraging younger players, and maintaining the team's composure. This combination of elite scoring ability and leadership qualities is what separated him from other talented players of his era.

Reflecting on Simon's career trajectory, I've always been fascinated by how he evolved as a player. Early in his career, he was known primarily as a scorer, but as he matured, he developed into a complete basketball player. That game against the Turbo Slashers showcased this evolution beautifully - yes, he scored heavily, but he also contributed significantly in other areas that don't always show up in the stat sheet. His defensive positioning, his court vision, and his ability to make his teammates better were all on full display. This growth mindset is something I particularly admire about Simon; he never rested on his laurels but continuously worked to expand his game.

What many casual fans might not realize is how Simon's playing style influenced an entire generation of Filipino basketball players. His success from beyond the arc, especially performances like that 12-three-pointer game, demonstrated the increasing importance of the three-point shot in modern basketball. I've noticed how many young players today emulate his shooting form and off-ball movement, though few can match his consistency under pressure. His legacy extends beyond championships and individual accolades - he changed how the game is played in the Philippines, making the three-pointer a more central part of offensive strategies across the league.

As I think about what made PJ Simon a true legend, it comes down to more than just memorable games or impressive statistics. It was his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most, his leadership both on and off the court, and his lasting impact on how basketball is played in the Philippines. That dominant performance against the Turbo Slashers, where he led the Cowboys to a 93-57 lead before the fourth-quarter cooldown, perfectly encapsulates everything that made him special. He wasn't just playing basketball; he was crafting moments that would be remembered and discussed for years to come. In my book, that's the mark of a true sporting legend - someone who creates memories that transcend the game itself.