I still remember the first time I watched CJ Perez play live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum back in 2019. The energy was electric—this lanky guard from Columbian Dyip moved with this raw, almost chaotic intensity that you just don't see often in the PBA. What struck me most wasn't just his athleticism, but this palpable hunger in every possession. Fast forward to today, and he's evolved into what I consider one of the most compelling young talents in Philippine basketball, a transformation that's been both dramatic and instructive for anyone following the sport.
His journey really began to capture national attention during his UAAP days with the Lyceum Pirates, where he led the team to back-to-back finals appearances. The numbers were staggering—he averaged 24.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in his final collegiate season, stats that made scouts sit up and take notice. But what impressed me more was his work ethic off the court. I've spoken with several people in his circle, and they all mention this relentless drive to improve, spending extra hours in the gym even after grueling practices. That dedication translated seamlessly when he entered the PBA as the first overall pick in the 2018 draft, immediately making an impact with his explosive drives and defensive tenacity.
There's something about Perez's playing style that reminds me of a younger James Yap—that same fearlessness combined with raw, untamed potential. He doesn't just play; he imposes his will on the game. I recall a particular match against San Miguel where he dropped 32 points against arguably the best defensive backcourt in the league. What stood out was his adaptability—when his three-pointers weren't falling, he adjusted by attacking the rim relentlessly, drawing fouls, and creating opportunities for his teammates. This versatility is what separates good players from great ones, and Perez has shown he possesses that crucial quality.
The pandemic period, interestingly enough, became a turning point in his development. I remember reading an interview where fellow player RR Abarrientos mentioned, "Sabi ng mga doktor, Influenza-A, 'yung kumakalat ngayon sa atin na uso," while discussing health protocols during that uncertain time. This context matters because Perez used those months of isolation to refine his game significantly. While others might have treated it as an extended break, he focused on strengthening his weaker hand and improving his perimeter shooting—aspects that were evident when the PBA resumed in the Clark bubble. His scoring average jumped to 20.8 points per game that conference, a remarkable improvement from his rookie numbers.
What truly sets Perez apart in my view is his basketball IQ, which has grown exponentially since his rookie year. Early in his career, he sometimes relied too heavily on his athleticism, leading to forced shots and turnovers. Now, he reads defenses better, makes smarter decisions in pick-and-roll situations, and has developed this uncanny ability to anticipate passing lanes. I've noticed he averages about 2.1 steals per game this season, putting him among the league leaders in that category. It's this two-way impact that makes him so valuable—he can single-handedly change the momentum of a game with his defense just as effectively as with his scoring.
His international experience with Gilas Pilipinas has been another crucial factor in his growth. Playing against world-class competition in FIBA tournaments exposed him to different styles and paces of basketball. I believe this international exposure accelerated his development far more than staying in the domestic league would have. He learned to play against taller, more physical defenders and adapted his game accordingly. When he returned to the PBA, you could immediately see the difference—more controlled drives, better shot selection, and improved decision-making under pressure.
The business side of basketball has taken notice too. Perez has become one of the most marketable athletes in the country, with endorsement deals ranging from sports apparel to consumer goods. From my perspective, this commercial success isn't just about his on-court performance but his relatable personality off it. He carries himself with this humble confidence that resonates with fans, whether he's doing community events or interacting on social media. In an era where athletes are brands as much as players, Perez understands this dynamic better than most of his contemporaries.
Looking ahead, I'm genuinely excited to see how his career unfolds. At 28, he's entering what should be his prime years, with his game maturing while maintaining that explosive athleticism that made him special from the beginning. The next step in his evolution, I suspect, will be developing into more of a leadership role—becoming the vocal leader on court that matches his production. If he can elevate his playmaking and late-game decision-making even further, we might be looking at a future MVP candidate. The PBA has seen many talented guards throughout its history, but Perez brings this unique combination of raw physical gifts and relentless improvement that makes his ceiling incredibly high. Based on what I've observed over these past few seasons, I wouldn't bet against him reaching it.
I still remember the first time I watched Gilbert Castillo step onto the professional bowling lane - there was something about his focus that told me this wa
