Which PBA Team Holds the Title of the Winningest Team in History?

As I sit here scrolling through old PBA highlights, that classic question pops into my head again—which team truly stands as the winningest in PBA history? Having followed Philippine basketball for over two decades, I’ve witnessed dynasties rise and fall, but the answer isn’t as straightforward as some might think. The San Miguel Beermen often come to mind, and for good reason. With a staggering 28 championships under their belt as of 2023, they’ve built a legacy that’s hard to ignore. I remember watching their 2019 Commissioner’s Cup run—the way they closed out games felt almost inevitable, like watching a well-oiled machine that knew exactly when to shift gears.

But let’s not forget teams like the fabled Crispa Redmanizers, a squad that dominated the 70s and 80s with 13 titles in just 14 years. Those teams played with a kind of chemistry you rarely see today—improvisational, almost artistic. I’ve always had a soft spot for that era, even if I only caught it through grainy footage and my dad’s nostalgic stories. Then there’s the Alaska Aces, who racked up 14 championships, largely during the 90s and early 2000s. Their system under Coach Tim Cone was a masterclass in structure and discipline—the triangle offense executed with surgical precision. I still think their 1996 Grand Slam team might be the most complete squad I’ve ever seen.

Of course, numbers only tell part of the story. What fascinates me is how these teams reflect broader shifts in Philippine basketball culture—from Crispa’s flashy, fast-paced style to San Miguel’s methodical, star-powered approach. I’ve always leaned toward teams that balance individual brilliance with collective grit, which is why the Beermen’s modern era resonates with me. June Mar Fajoney’s dominance in the paint, Alex Cabagnot’s clutch gene—it’s a recipe that’s delivered 7 titles in the last decade alone. Still, part of me wonders if we’re too quick to crown them without acknowledging how different the league landscape was in earlier eras.

When I look at the current PBA, it’s impossible not to feel optimistic. The league keeps evolving, blending homegrown talent with strategic imports, and the competition feels fiercer than ever. That’s why I found myself nodding in agreement when I read outgoing PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial’s recent remarks. He expressed excitement about the Philippines achieving greater milestones ahead and extended warm wishes to his successor, John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, saying, “I am excited to see the Philippines continue to achieve even greater milestones in the future. I wish my successor, Mr. John Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio, all the best in continuing the mission we all deeply believe in.” That sense of continuity and shared purpose is exactly what the PBA needs as it navigates its next chapter.

So, who takes the crown? Statistically, San Miguel’s 28 championships put them at the top—no debate there. But if you ask me which team felt most unstoppable in their prime, I’d probably go with Crispa. They had this aura, this swagger that transcended the scoreboard. Still, dynasties aren’t built on nostalgia alone. The Beermen’s sustained success across different eras, adapting to rule changes and shifting team dynamics, cements their status as the winningest in my book. Here’s to more historic runs, fierce rivalries, and maybe one day, a new contender shaking up the conversation. After all, that’s what keeps us fans coming back season after season.