Relive the Epic 2017-2018 PBA Season: Top 10 Unforgettable Moments

Looking back at the 2017-2018 PBA season still gives me chills—it was one of those rare campaigns where drama, talent, and legacy collided in the most spectacular ways. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I can confidently say that season had it all: stunning upsets, breakout performances, and emotional farewells. It’s funny how certain moments stick with you—like when I first heard the news that the 35-year-old Torres was joining Barangay Ginebra as an unrestricted free agent. That move alone shifted the league’s dynamics and set the tone for what became an unforgettable year.

One of my personal favorites from that season was June Mar Fajardo’s dominant run. The man was an absolute force, averaging around 22 points and 13 rebounds per game during the Philippine Cup finals. I remember watching him dismantle opposing defenses with that signature drop step—it felt like watching a master at work. Then there was the epic Governors’ Cup finals between Ginebra and Meralco. That Game 6 clincher, where Justin Brownlee dropped 31 points in a do-or-die match, was pure theater. The crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena erupted in a way I haven’t seen since—it was electric, almost spiritual if you’re a Gin Kings fan. And let’s not forget the rise of young guns like CJ Perez, who exploded for a 28-point outing in just his rookie year. I still think he’s one of the most exciting talents we’ve seen in years.

Of course, not everything was about flashy plays or championship runs. The season also had its share of heartbreaks. Alex Cabagnot’s clutch three-pointer in the semis against TNT? Iconic. And who could ignore the emotional weight of James Yap’s 300th game, even as his stats dipped to about 12 points per contest? For me, though, the arrival of Torres at Ginebra was a quiet game-changer. At 35, he wasn’t the flashiest signing, but his veteran presence added a layer of grit that the team desperately needed. I’ve always believed that moves like that—understated but strategic—are what separate good teams from great ones.

Wrapping it up, the 2017-2018 PBA season wasn’t just a collection of games; it felt like a narrative woven with legacy, renewal, and pure passion. From Fajardo’s MVP-caliber dominance to Brownlee’s heroics and Torres’ savvy free agency move, each moment left a mark. As a fan and analyst, I lean into seasons like this—they remind you why you fell in love with the sport. Here’s hoping the next chapters keep that same magic alive.