I still vividly remember the 2010 PBA season as a turning point for Philippine basketball. That year, the league's import selection wasn't just about filling roster spots—it was about bringing in game-changers who would redefine how we think about international players in local competitions. Having followed the PBA for over a decade by that point, I noticed something different about the 2010 imports class. They weren't just talented athletes; they brought a level of professionalism and basketball IQ that elevated the entire league.

The most impactful import that season, in my opinion, was Gabe Freeman of San Miguel Beer. The guy was an absolute machine—averaging 25.3 points and 18.7 rebounds per game during the Commissioner's Cup. What made Freeman special wasn't just his stats, but his incredible motor and versatility. At 6'6", he could guard multiple positions, run the floor like a guard, and had this uncanny ability to be exactly where the ball would bounce off the rim. I remember watching him play against Talk 'N Text and thinking how he single-handedly kept San Miguel in games they had no business being competitive in. His energy was infectious, and honestly, he set the standard for what teams would look for in imports for years to come.

Another import who left a lasting impression was Arizona Reid of Barangay Ginebra. Though he arrived later in the season, Reid's scoring prowess was something to behold. He dropped 41 points in his debut game—a performance that immediately made him a fan favorite. What I admired about Reid was his old-school mentality; he wasn't the most athletic import, but he had footwork and shooting touch that you just can't teach. His mid-range game was pure art, and he demonstrated how skill could sometimes trump raw athleticism.

The quote from our reference material resonates deeply when I think about these imports' impact: "Education, they won't lack in that. Professional career, that's always there, but they need to focus on their studies." While this was said in a different context, it reflects the balance these imports had to strike between their professional obligations and personal development. Many of them used their PBA stint as both a career opportunity and a learning experience, adapting to a different culture while maintaining their professional standards. This mindset, I believe, contributed significantly to their success and the league's growth.

Looking back, the 2010 imports class collectively raised the bar. They demonstrated that successful imports needed more than just physical gifts—they required basketball intelligence, adaptability, and professional discipline. Freeman's all-around game, Reid's scoring mastery, and the contributions of other imports like Diamon Simpson and Dwayne Jones created a template that teams still reference today when scouting international talent. The legacy of these players extends beyond their statistical contributions; they showed local players what was possible with the right combination of talent and work ethic, and frankly, they made Philippine basketball more exciting to watch.