As I was analyzing the PBA's historical data last week, I found myself particularly drawn to Greg Slaughter's career trajectory. Having watched his games since his Ateneo days, I've always felt there was something special about his game that statistics alone couldn't capture. When we talk about dominant centers in the PBA, names like June Mar Fajardo, Asi Taulava, and Raymond Almazan immediately come to mind, but where exactly does Slaughter fit in this elite group?
Let me start with some hard numbers that might surprise you. In his seven seasons with Barangay Ginebra, Slaughter averaged 14.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. Compare that to June Mar Fajardo's career averages of 17.8 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. On paper, Fajardo clearly has the edge, but here's where it gets interesting - Slaughter actually had better per-minute statistics during his peak years from 2014 to 2017. I remember watching those games thinking he was genuinely unstoppable when given the right opportunities.
The reference to June Mar not being the focal point of the offense during the Asian Games really got me thinking about how systems impact player statistics. Ross's observation that "the offense is catered around JB" highlights something crucial about evaluating centers - their numbers depend heavily on their role within the system. Slaughter often found himself in similar situations where the offense wasn't necessarily built around him, unlike Fajardo who's been the undeniable centerpiece of San Miguel's system for years. This context matters tremendously when comparing their career stats.
Looking at rebounding numbers specifically, Slaughter's career average of 9.8 rebounds per game places him among the league's elite, though he trails Fajardo's dominant 12.4. What many fans might not realize is that Slaughter actually had a higher offensive rebounding percentage during his first three seasons than any other center in recent PBA history. I recall watching him snatch rebounds away from multiple defenders with those massive hands of his - it was truly something to behold.
When we examine defensive impact, the blocking numbers tell a compelling story. Slaughter averaged 1.8 blocks per game compared to Fajardo's 1.5. While that might seem like a small difference, over the course of a season, that translates to about 15-20 additional blocked shots. I've always believed Slaughter's defensive presence was underrated - his sheer size and timing made him a formidable rim protector, even if he wasn't as mobile as some of the newer generation centers.
The shooting efficiency metrics reveal another layer to this comparison. Slaughter maintained a field goal percentage of 52.3% throughout his career, which is impressive but falls short of Fajardo's remarkable 55.8%. However, Slaughter had better free throw shooting at 74.5% compared to Fajardo's 70.2%. This might seem trivial, but in close games, that difference matters. I've seen multiple games where Slaughter's free throw accuracy saved crucial possessions for Ginebra.
What fascinates me most is how their careers diverged despite similar physical attributes. Both stand at 7 feet tall, but their usage rates and offensive roles differed significantly. Slaughter's career usage rate hovered around 22.3%, while Fajardo's sits at 28.1%. That 6% difference might not sound like much, but in basketball terms, it's substantial. It means Fajardo had nearly 30% more offensive possessions designed for him throughout his career.
I can't help but wonder how Slaughter's numbers might have looked if he had played in a system more tailored to his strengths. The Asian Games reference about offensive systems being catered to specific players resonates deeply here. Slaughter showed flashes of brilliance when given the opportunity to be the focal point, like during the 2016 Commissioner's Cup where he averaged 18.5 points and 11.2 rebounds. Those numbers suggest he could have been even more productive in a different environment.
Comparing their longevity and consistency reveals another gap. Fajardo has maintained elite production for over a decade, while Slaughter's peak was shorter and more interrupted by injuries. This isn't to diminish Slaughter's accomplishments - when healthy, he was undoubtedly one of the most dominant big men in recent PBA history. But basketball careers are measured by sustained excellence, and here Fajardo clearly has the advantage.
Looking beyond raw statistics, I've always appreciated Slaughter's basketball IQ and passing ability. His career average of 1.9 assists per game might not jump off the page, but for a traditional center, it demonstrates good court vision and unselfish play. I remember specific games where his outlet passes sparked fast breaks that completely changed the momentum. These subtle contributions often get lost in traditional stat sheets.
As I reflect on Slaughter's place among PBA greats, I believe he belongs in the conversation with the top centers of his era, though perhaps a tier below Fajardo's legendary status. His career statistics, while impressive, don't fully capture the impact he had when he was at his best. The numbers tell part of the story, but they can't measure the intimidation factor he brought or the defensive attention he commanded. In my view, Slaughter's legacy is that of a dominant force whose career left us wondering what might have been under different circumstances. His statistics place him firmly among the PBA's elite centers, even if they fall short of the historic benchmarks set by Fajardo.
