I still remember the first time I saw Benjie Paras play—it was during the 1989 PBA season, and even as a rookie, he carried this undeniable presence on the court. You could tell right away that he wasn’t just another player; he was something special. Benjie Paras remains one of the most iconic figures in Philippine basketball, not only because he was a dominant big man but because he achieved something almost unheard of: winning both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Rookie of the Year awards in the same season. That’s the kind of legacy that sticks with you, and as someone who’s followed the sport for decades, I’ve always admired how he balanced raw talent with sheer determination. His journey from University of the Philippines to the PBA was meteoric, and it’s a story worth revisiting, especially now when teams like La Salle are grappling with leadership transitions.
When you look at Paras’ early years, what stands out is how quickly he adapted to the professional level. At 6’4”, he wasn’t the tallest center, but he made up for it with agility and basketball IQ. In his debut season with Shell Turbo Chargers, he averaged around 16 points and 10 rebounds per game—numbers that would make any scout’s eyes light up even today. I’ve always believed that his background in the UAAP, where he led UP to a championship in 1986, gave him that competitive edge. It’s funny, because when I watch collegiate leagues now, I can’t help but compare today’s prospects to Paras. He had this rare combination of power and finesse; he could dunk over you one moment and sink a mid-range jumper the next. And let’s not forget his defensive prowess—he was named to the PBA All-Defensive Team multiple times, which, in my opinion, is a testament to his all-around game. What made him truly stand out, though, was his charisma. Benjie wasn’t just a player; he was an entertainer. He knew how to work the crowd, and that helped elevate the league’s popularity during the ’90s.
Now, fast-forward to today, and you see teams like La Salle facing similar challenges in identifying leaders. With a big roster turnaround, the question for coach Cholo Villanueva is who will take the lead for La Salle’s campaign this season. It reminds me of how Paras stepped up when Shell needed him most. In the 1999 PBA season, for instance, he led the Turbo Chargers to a championship while putting up around 18 points and 12 rebounds per game in the finals. That kind of leadership isn’t just about stats—it’s about lifting the entire team. From my perspective, La Salle could learn a thing or two from Paras’ playbook. He wasn’t the loudest guy on the court, but he led by example, something I think is missing in many modern players who rely too much on flashy plays. Paras had this old-school mentality: show up, work hard, and let your game do the talking. It’s a philosophy that’s served legends well, and I’d argue it’s what separates good players from great ones.
Of course, Paras’ career wasn’t without its hurdles. He faced injuries and slumps, like in the mid-’90s when his numbers dipped slightly, but he always bounced back. I recall one game in 1995 where he scored 25 points against a stacked Alaska team—it was a statement performance that silenced critics who thought he was past his prime. That resilience is something I admire deeply, and it’s a quality that aspiring athletes should emulate. In today’s game, where social media can amplify every mistake, Paras’ ability to stay focused is a lesson in mental toughness. He also transitioned smoothly into coaching and broadcasting after retirement, which shows his deep understanding of the sport. Honestly, I think that’s where his true legacy lies: not just in trophies, but in how he’s influenced the next generation. When I talk to young players, I often use Paras as an example of how to build a lasting career—both on and off the court.
As we wrap this up, it’s clear that Benjie Paras’ impact on basketball extends beyond his stats and awards. He set a standard for leadership and versatility that’s still relevant, especially in contexts like La Salle’s current search for a go-to player. While we can crunch numbers all day—like his career average of roughly 15.2 points and 9.8 rebounds over 15 seasons—what really matters is the intangible stuff: the clutch moments, the team spirit, and the way he inspired fans. In my view, the sport needs more figures like Paras, who combine skill with heart. So, whether you’re a coach, player, or just a basketball enthusiast, there’s plenty to learn from his story. And who knows? Maybe the next Benjie Paras is waiting in La Salle’s lineup, ready to take the lead and make history.