The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to introduce a new innovation called the four-point play in the upcoming 49th season, starting with the Governors’ Cup on August 18 at the Araneta Coliseum.
League commissioner Willie Marcial stated that the acceptance and adaptability of this new rule by fans and players will determine its permanence in the league. “Tingnan natin. Kung maging successful ito, tuluy-tuloy ito,” said Marcial during Monday’s Media Day at the Le Parc Event Hall in Pasay City.
Last month, the board of governors approved the proposal to add the four-point arc shot, a basket made from 27 feet away from the hoop. The PBA plans to implement the four-point line in the coming season. This innovation was first introduced in the last two All-Star Games, where Robert Bolick completed a historic five-point play, enabling Team Mark to force a draw with Team Japeth in the Bacolod City edition.
Marcial emphasized the importance of evaluating the rule’s impact, stating, “Tingnan natin kung ano puede natin, or puede din it mawala.” If successful, the four-point play will be retained in future conferences.
Marcial believes that the four-point arc will encourage players to extend their shooting range, adding a new dynamic to the game.
The Governors’ Cup will also feature the return of import Justine Brownlee to Barangay Ginebra and his rival Allen Durham to the recently-crowned Philippine Cup champions, Meralco Bolts. Additionally, Rain or Shine is bringing back veteran Aaron Fuller, who will reunite with former coach Yeng Guiao. Fuller previously played under Guiao’s coaching at NLEX and later with Blackwater and TNT.
