Chris Banchero made history by becoming the first player to score a 4-pointer in a game.
The Meralco guard achieved this milestone during the second quarter of the opening game of the 2024 Governors’ Cup against Magnolia at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Banchero’s shot from the newly introduced four-point area came naturally, as he had already been practicing from that range before the league implemented the rule for its 49th season.
The four-point line in the PBA is placed 27 feet (8.23 meters) away from the basket, a distance slightly beyond the NBA’s three-point line, which stands at 23.75 feet (7.24 meters) at the top of the key, and FIBA’s three-point line, which is 22.15 feet (6.75 meters).
Banchero described the shot as an instinctual decision rather than a deliberate attempt to make history, noting that it felt just a little farther than his usual range.
He acknowledged the significance of his achievement but downplayed the difficulty of the shot, stating that it wasn’t much different from his typical shooting range.
Banchero finished the game with 13 points, contributing to Meralco’s 99-94 victory over Magnolia.
The introduction of the four-point shot has already sparked conversation within the league, with Banchero emphasizing its impact on the game.
He expressed optimism about the new rule, stating that it adds an element of fun and excitement to the game.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether the PBA will continue to incorporate the four-point line into its games.
Banchero’s historic shot has set the stage for what could be a transformative season in the PBA, with the four-point line potentially becoming a regular feature in future games.
Despite potential criticism, the veteran playmaker is happy to have made history and is curious to see how the rule will evolve throughout the season.
In the final seconds of the game, Magnolia attempted to use the four-point line to tie the score but missed, securing Meralco’s win.
