I still remember the first time I saw Chris Bitoon play—it was during his college days with the San Sebastian Stags, and even then, you could tell there was something special about his game. Fast forward to today, and his name is buzzing across Philippine basketball circles for all the right reasons. The Chris Bitoon PBA journey has become one of those feel-good stories that remind you why we love sports—the underdog mentality, the relentless work ethic, and those moments where raw talent meets opportunity.
Speaking of opportunities, let’s talk about the recent PVL on Tour match this past Saturday at Batangas City Sports Center. Now, I know what you’re thinking—volleyball? But stick with me here. Nxled’s stunning five-set victory over Petro Gazz—25-23, 19-25, 19-25, 25-15, 15-10—was more than just an upset. It was a masterclass in resilience, something Bitoon himself has embodied throughout his career. Watching Nxled bounce back after dropping two straight sets reminded me of Bitoon’s own path: overlooked at times, written off occasionally, but never, ever out of the fight.
Bitoon’s road to the PBA wasn’t exactly paved with gold. He went undrafted back in 2019, and a lot of people—myself included, I’ll admit—wondered if he’d ever get his shot. But he kept grinding in the MPBL and the PBA D-League, putting up numbers that you simply couldn’t ignore. Last season, he averaged around 14.5 points and 4.2 assists per game for the Pasig Sta. Lucia Realtors. Those aren’t just stats—they’re statements. And when Converge FiberXers finally gave him that PBA contract earlier this year, it felt like justice.
What stands out to me about Bitoon’s game isn’t just his scoring or playmaking—it’s his basketball IQ. He sees plays before they develop, something you don’t always see in young guards. I’ve watched him dissect defenses with simple pick-and-roll actions, and his mid-range jumper is pure silk. It’s the kind of skillset that makes you wonder how he flew under the radar for so long. But then again, sometimes the best stories are the ones that take time to unfold.
Let’s circle back to that PVL match for a second. Nxled’s comeback win wasn’t just about skill—it was about heart. After losing the second and third sets, they could’ve folded. Instead, they dominated the fourth set 25-15 and closed it out 15-10 in the fifth. That kind of mental toughness is exactly what Bitoon has shown in his PBA stint so far. In his debut game with Converge, he dropped 18 points and dished out 5 assists against a tough Rain or Shine squad. Not bad for a rookie people said was too small or not quite athletic enough.
I had a chance to speak with Coach Dondon Hontiveros last month, and he mentioned Bitoon’s professionalism and willingness to learn. “Chris doesn’t say much, but he works,” Hontiveros told me. “He’s always the first one in the gym and the last to leave. That kind of attitude is contagious.” And honestly, that’s the part of the Chris Bitoon PBA journey that resonates most with me. Talent can get you noticed, but character keeps you in the league.
There’s a certain beauty in how sports mirror life. Nxled’s upset win—a match that lasted roughly two hours and kept fans on the edge of their seats—was a reminder that favorites don’t always win. Bitoon’s story is similar. He wasn’t the most hyped prospect, but he’s making the most of his moment. I’ve followed his career closely, and what impresses me isn’t just the flashy plays—it’s the consistency. Night in, night out, he brings energy and smarts to the floor.
Some critics point to his size or his defense as potential limitations, but I disagree. The PBA has evolved. It’s not just about physical specimens anymore—it’s about players who can think the game, and Bitoon does that as well as anyone. In Converge’s last three games, he’s averaged 16 points and 4.5 assists while shooting 42% from beyond the arc. Those are starter-level numbers, and I won’t be surprised if he’s in the running for Rookie of the Year.
As I wrap this up, I can’t help but feel optimistic about where Bitoon’s career is headed. His story—like Nxled’s thrilling five-set victory—is about more than just winning. It’s about proving people wrong, staying ready for your moment, and embracing the grind. The Chris Bitoon PBA journey is still unfolding, but if what we’ve seen so far is any indication, Philippine basketball has a new star on the rise—one assist, one clutch shot, and one upset at a time.
