‘BILLY RAY BATES IS THE GREATEST IMPORT EVER’

The Philippine Basketball Association has seen many great imports in its 37 years of existence. But one name — Billy Ray Bates — holds a special place in the hearts not just of PBA fans, but of its greatest players.

“Madami na akong nakitang import na dumating, umalis at bumalik, pero walang katulad si Billy Ray Bates,” said Philip Cezar, who played with the man dubbed “The Black Superman” in Crispa’s 1983 Grand Slam run. “He’s not only a great import, but he also made his teammates better. Hindi niya pinupuwersa yung galling niya kasi natural na lumalabas.”


Cezar’s partner-in-crime in those legendary Redmanizers squads, Atoy Co, concurred.

“Bates is the greatest import I’ve ever seen,” said Co. “He can play inside and out and he’s unstoppable, especially during the time he played for Crispa. And he was up against a group of great imports, such as Norman Black and Lew Massey.”

Even opponents remain in awe of Bates’ exploits in the league. Three-time PBA Most Valuable Player Bogs Adornado, who starred for the Great Taste team that battled Bates’ Crispa squad in 1983, shares the opinion of Cezar and Co.

“Definitely, Billy Ray Bates is the best import,” he said.

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