Ever heard of the name Mia Montemayor in the context of Philippine basketball? If that doesn’t ring a bell, you’re in for a treat. Let’s rewind the clock to an epic moment in sports history — a game-changing ceremony that sparked what is now the legendary Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
A Starry Beginning on April 9, 1975
Imagine this: 18,000 roaring fans at the iconic Araneta Coliseum, all gathered on a Wednesday night — not just for a game, but to witness the birth of a movement.
At the heart of it stood the very first Miss PBA, Mia Montemayor, stunning in her grace and poise, making the ceremonial toss to officially commence the country’s first-ever professional basketball league. Who would have thought that this elegant actress, with film credits like the 1978 cult film “Drigo Garrote: Jai Alai King,” would find herself etched in the annals of sports history?
When Glamour Met Grit
Montemayor wasn’t just a pretty face. On that milestone evening, she stood in for then-GAB chairman Louie Tabuena, flanked by PBA bigshots such as president Emerson Coseteng and commissioner Leo Prieto. This wasn’t a red carpet event — it was the court debut of the PBA, and she held the spotlight with pride.
The ceremonial jump ball happened between Mariwasa Noritake’s Cisco Oliver and Concepcion Carrier’s Ramon Lucindo, setting the stage for an unforgettable match-up.
A Parade of Beauties and a Buzzer-Beater of a Game
As if history wasn’t already being made, the inaugural night kicked off with a glamorous parade of team muses — and boy, what a lineup it was! From Jean Saburit for CFC to Miss Finland 1974 Jhoanna Raunio for Concepcion, beauty queens marched with pride, symbolizing each team’s identity and adding dazzle to the drama.
Let’s name-drop a few more, shall we? Reggie Prada (Crispa), Debbie Enriquez (Mariwasa Noritake), the youthful Marilou Valeriano (Royal Tru-Orange), and Lolit Imperial (Toyota) were just some of the radiant faces that lit up the court. These weren’t just muses — they were icons of their time.
Interestingly, Crispa’s star player Atoy Co, along with legends Bogs Adornado, Freddie Hubalde, Bernard Fabiosa, and Abet Guidaben, missed this star-studded affair. They were off representing the country in the New Zealand Friendship Games. Talk about being torn between two historical milestones!
First Basket, Forever Remembered
So, who put up the first points ever in a PBA game?
That honor goes to Joy Dionisio of Concepcion Carrier. It’s the kind of trivia that adds charm to a legacy. Although his team lost a nail-biter 101-98 to Mariwasa Noritake, the moment was monumental.
Let’s not forget Jimmy Noblezada, one of Concepcion’s standout players, who dropped 24 points that night. Now 74 years old, Jimmy’s legacy spans 276 games from 1975 to 1981. His presence at the recent 50th-anniversary celebration is both nostalgic and inspiring.
50 Years Later, Echoes of a Wednesday Night Remain
Fast forward to today, and that same buzzing energy resonates — at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum this time — with the PBA celebrating its golden anniversary on another fateful Wednesday. A full-circle moment, if you will.
And guess what? If anyone knew where Mia Montemayor was today, she would’ve been the perfect guest of honor to relive her iconic moment.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Game, A Cultural Milestone
That night in 1975 wasn’t just the beginning of a sports league — it was a cultural revolution. A blend of celebrity, athleticism, glamour, and gritty competition, all rolled into one unforgettable evening.
For those who lived it, it was a night they’ll never forget. For the new generation of fans, it’s a story that deserves to be passed on — not just as trivia, but as part of Philippine sports heritage.
So next time someone mentions the PBA, remember: it all began with a simple toss by a woman named Mia, cheered on by thousands, setting a ball — and a legacy — into motion.
Got memories of that iconic night? Or maybe you heard your Tito rave about it over Sunday lunch? Share your stories — let’s keep the history alive! 🏀💬