Discover the Top 7 Footer PBA Players Dominating the Court Today
Walking onto the court at any PBA game these days feels like stepping into a masterclass in basketball excellence, and I’ve got to say—the energy is absolutely electric. As a longtime follower of the league, I’ve watched players evolve, teams rebuild, and legacies unfold right before my eyes. Today, I want to dive into the seven standout footer players who are not just playing the game but truly dominating it. These athletes bring something special—whether it’s sheer power, finesse, or that clutch gene when the game is on the line. And while we’re at it, let’s not forget the context shaping team dynamics right now. Take Barangay Ginebra, for instance—they’re navigating the season with only 13 players on their active roster. Big man Isaac Go, a promising talent, is sidelined on the injured/reserved list and isn’t expected to rejoin the Gin Kings until late December or early January at the earliest. That kind of absence shifts strategies, tests depth, and honestly, makes what these top players are achieving even more impressive.
First up, June Mar Fajardo—the man’s a living legend, and I don’t throw that term around lightly. Standing at 6’10", he’s not just tall; he’s a fortress in the paint. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him grab a rebound with what seems like minimal effort, then pivot into a smooth hook shot that just kisses the glass before dropping in. Over the last season, he averaged around 16.8 points and 12.4 rebounds per game, numbers that speak volumes about his consistency. But it’s his footwork that sets him apart. In a game against TNT last month, he executed a series of drop steps and up-and-unders that left defenders scrambling. Honestly, watching him feels like attending a basketball clinic—every move is calculated, every post-up a lesson in positioning. And with teams like Ginebra missing key big men temporarily, Fajardo’s dominance becomes even more pivotal in the league’s balance of power.
Then there’s Christian Standhardinger, a player whose motor never seems to quit. At 6’8", he brings this relentless energy that’s contagious. I remember catching a game where he fought for three consecutive offensive boards, finally tipping in the ball while drawing a foul. That kind of hustle isn’t just skill—it’s heart. Statistically, he’s been putting up roughly 18 points and 10 rebounds a game this conference, but it’s his ability to run the floor that amazes me. In transition, he’s like a freight train, often finishing with those tough, contested layups. Given Ginebra’s current roster crunch, players like Standhardinger highlight how crucial depth is. If they had someone of his caliber available off the bench consistently, it could change entire game outcomes.
Scottie Thompson deserves a spot here not just for his scoring but for his all-around game. I’ve always been a sucker for guards who play bigger than their size, and Thompson, at 6’1", is a prime example. His rebounding—especially among guards—is borderline ridiculous. Last I checked, he was pulling down about 7.5 rebounds per game to go with his 12 points and 6 assists. But what sticks with me is his timing. He’ll swoop in from the perimeter to snatch a board over taller opponents, then ignite a fast break in seconds. It’s that kind of versatility that makes him a nightmare for matchups. With Isaac Go’s absence stretching Ginebra’s frontcourt thin, having a guard who can rebound like a big is a luxury few teams enjoy.
Moving on, Japeth Aguilar’s athleticism is something I’ve admired for years. At 6’9", he’s got the wingspan of a pterodactyl and the hops of a young Vince Carter. I’ll never forget that game where he threw down a put-back dunk over two defenders—the arena went wild, and honestly, so did I. His shot-blocking is equally impressive; he averaged around 2.1 blocks last season, altering countless more. But what’s underrated is his improved mid-range jumper. He’s developed that pick-and-pop game to near perfection, forcing defenders to respect him outside the paint. In a league where spacing is key, Aguilar’s evolution makes him a dual threat. Considering Ginebra’s limited roster, his ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor is invaluable—imagine if they had to face him without a fully stocked lineup.
Another name that can’t be overlooked is Raymond Almazan. Though he’s had his share of injuries, when he’s on, he’s a force. I’ve seen him dominate stretches with his defensive presence alone. At 6’8", he uses his length to disrupt shots and secure boards in traffic. Last conference, he put up about 11 points and 8 rebounds, but his impact goes beyond stats. He’s one of those guys who sets solid screens and rolls hard to the basket, creating openings for his teammates. In a recent match, his defensive stops in the fourth quarter sealed the win for his team. With teams like Ginebra operating shorthanded, facing a center of Almazan’s caliber can expose depth issues real quick.
Then we have Poy Erram, who might not always light up the scoreboard but does the dirty work that wins games. I’ve always appreciated players who embrace their role, and Erram, at 6’8", is a defensive anchor. His timing on blocks is superb—he averaged 1.9 per game last season—and he’s adept at drawing charges. Offensively, he’s developed a decent outside shot, hitting about 34% from three-point range, which keeps defenders honest. I recall a game where his back-to-back blocks sparked a 10-0 run that shifted momentum entirely. In a scenario where rosters are tight, like Ginebra’s, having a player like Erram who can anchor the defense without needing heavy offensive touches is a coach’s dream.
Last but definitely not least, there’s Calvin Abueva. Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him. At 6’3", he plays with a ferocity that’s rare. I’ve seen him guard positions one through five, and his energy is just infectious. Statistically, he’s been good for around 14 points and 9 rebounds, but it’s the intangibles—the loose balls he dives for, the emotional lift he gives his team—that make him special. In one memorable outing, he scored 20 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists, all while getting under the skin of the opposing star. With the league’s roster fluctuations, like Ginebra’s 13-man lineup missing Isaac Go, a wild card like Abueva can exploit gaps with his unpredictable style.
Wrapping this up, it’s clear that these seven footer players aren’t just statistical leaders; they’re the heartbeats of their teams. From Fajardo’s polished dominance to Abueva’s chaotic brilliance, each brings a unique flavor to the court. And in a season where teams like Ginebra are navigating roster challenges—seriously, only 13 active players with Isaac Go out until January?—it underscores how vital these stars are. They carry extra loads, adapt to shifting strategies, and deliver under pressure. As a fan and analyst, I believe this era of PBA basketball is one of the most exciting yet, and watching these players rise to the occasion is a thrill I wouldn’t trade for anything. If you’re not tuning in, you’re missing out on some legendary performances.