MANILA, Philippines – The PBA All-Star weekend, scheduled for March 23 in Bacolod City, promises an exciting departure from tradition with the introduction of a new side event—the Skills Challenge. This innovative addition will replace the customary slam dunk competition, marking a shift in focus toward showcasing the diverse skills of the league’s top players.

For the past three decades, the dunk contest has been a staple of the All-Star weekend, but this year, it will make way for a three-point shootout, a fan-favorite that pits the league’s sharpest shooters against each other. The change in format aims to keep the event fresh and engaging for fans while allowing players to demonstrate their prowess from beyond the arc.

The guards’ three-point shootout and obstacle challenge, another thrilling facet of the All-Star weekend, are yet to finalize participants. However, anticipation is building as defending champions Dave Marcelo and Paul Lee are expected to return to defend their respective titles. The guards’ shootout and obstacle challenge provide a platform for players to showcase their precision and agility, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

The roster for the three-point shootout boasts an impressive lineup of sharpshooters, including Maverick Ahanmisi, Alex Stockton, Chris Newsome, Robbie Herndon, Arvin Tolentino, Tyler Tio, Andrei Caracut, Marcio Lassiter, Javi Gomez de Liano, Calvin Oftana, and James Yap. Paul Lee, aiming for a back-to-back victory, faces stiff competition as he contends with former champions and emerging talents.

James Yap, a two-time winner in 2009 and 2018, stands as the only other contestant with multiple victories in the three-point shootout. This adds an intriguing layer to the competition as Yap brings both experience and a proven track record to the event.

In the Obstacle Challenge, Dave Marcelo faces a formidable field that includes Christian Standhardinger, Justin Arana, James Laput, Calma, Perkins, Tautuaa, Go, Ganuelas-Rosser, along with rookies Clifford Jopia, Brandon Bates, and Keith Datu. The challenge tests players’ agility, speed, and ball-handling skills as they navigate a series of obstacles, providing a unique and entertaining spectacle for fans.

The All-Star weekend promises a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, creating an atmosphere of fierce competition and camaraderie. The decision to introduce the Skills Challenge and revamp the traditional dunk contest reflects the league’s commitment to innovation and delivering an unforgettable experience for fans. As the players gear up for these exciting events, the PBA All-Star weekend in Bacolod City is poised to be a celebration of skill, athleticism, and the enduring spirit of Philippine basketball.