CHRIS Banchero felt grateful being part of PBA history now after becoming the first player to make a basket from the novelty four-point area.
But truth be told, the Meralco guard admitted he's already been shooting from 27-feet in practices even before the league decided to adopt the new rule for its 49th season.
"I usually shoot from that range so it kind of comes natural," he said. "(But) you don't want to force it from the four-point line just because it is a four-point."
Banchero etched his name in PBA annals when he converted the first ever four-point basket with 10:25 to go in the second period of the opening game between Meralco and Magnolia in the 2024 Governors' Cup Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
It wasn't intentional on the part of the Fil-Italian, but felt he was in a kind of rhythm at that exact moment he decided to go for it.
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He now joins the likes of Living Legend Robert Jaworski and guard Joy Dionisio as among those who achieved landmark moments in the rich history of Asia's pioneering pro league. Jaworski was the first to convert from the three-point line in 1980, while Dionisio recorded the first ever basket in the PBA.
"Good to be in the history books," said Banchero. "But it was just a little bit farther than it was last conference, so it was not that crazy for me. But it's good. I'm happy I made it."
While there may be critics of the new ruling, Banchero stressed the impact the four-point shot has on the game just one playdate into the new season.
"It's fun playing with those. We'll see how it goes this conference, and see if they (PBA) want to keep it," said the veteran playmaker.
Banchero finished with 13 points in Meralco's 99-94 win over Magnolia.
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Curiously, the Hotshots went for the win by attempting from the four-point line and the team just down, 97-94 in the final 11 seconds.
Unfortunately, import Glenn Robinson's attempt didn't find its mark, leading to an Allen Durham rebound and eventually, two free throws to peg the final count. (RG)
