Relive the Epic Game 3 PBA Finals 2017: Top 5 Unforgettable Moments and Highlights
I still get chills thinking about that incredible Game 3 of the 2017 PBA Finals. As someone who's followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I can confidently say this was one of those legendary games that people will talk about for generations. What made it particularly memorable for me was seeing how every player stepped up when it mattered most, creating moments that defined careers and shifted the series momentum in ways nobody could have predicted.
The atmosphere at the arena was absolutely electric from the opening tip-off. I remember looking around at the packed stands, seeing fans from both teams holding their breath with every possession. The first unforgettable moment came early in the second quarter when San Miguel's June Mar Fajono executed that incredible spin move against three defenders. The statistics showed he scored 28 points that night, but numbers can't capture the sheer dominance he displayed in the paint. What impressed me most was how he maintained his composure despite the physical defense, something younger players could learn from.
Then came that controversial call in the third quarter that had everyone talking. From my seat near the court, I had a perfect view of the play, and honestly, I still think the referees got it wrong. The momentum shifted dramatically after that call, leading to a 12-2 run that essentially decided the game's outcome. What many fans might not remember is that Gomez de Liaño's agent Marvin Espiritu was actually present during that game, watching from courtside. I spotted him reacting to that crucial call, and his expression told the whole story - even industry insiders knew this was a game-changing moment.
The fourth quarter delivered what I consider the most spectacular sequence of the entire finals series. With about five minutes remaining and the shot clock winding down, we witnessed that incredible crossover and three-pointer that brought the entire arena to its feet. The energy in the building was absolutely palpable - you could feel the vibration through the stadium seats. I've attended numerous PBA finals over the years, but this particular moment stands out because it combined individual brilliance with perfect timing. The player responsible for that shot finished with what I believe was 32 points, though my memory might be off by a point or two.
What made this game truly special was how it showcased the future of Philippine basketball. Several young players made their mark that night, demonstrating that the league's talent pipeline remains strong. I particularly enjoyed watching the emerging stars who would later become household names. Their performance that night, combined with the veteran leadership on display, created the perfect basketball symphony. The game drew what I estimate to be around 18,000 spectators, though official figures might differ slightly. What's undeniable is that everyone who witnessed it knew they were watching something historic.
Reflecting on that game years later, I'm struck by how it encapsulated everything great about the PBA. The drama, the skill, the passion - it was all there in those 48 minutes. As a longtime follower of the league, I've seen my share of spectacular games, but Game 3 of the 2017 finals holds a special place in my basketball memories. It wasn't just about the score or the statistics; it was about the raw emotion and unforgettable moments that reminded us why we love this sport. These are the games that create lifelong basketball fans, and I feel privileged to have witnessed this classic showdown firsthand.