Metro Manila, Philippines — More than the opening festivities of the PBA’s 49th season, fans eagerly awaited the first-ever four-point shot and by who in the game between the Meralco Bolts and Magnolia Hotshots at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Bolts guard Chris Banchero earned his place in PBA history as the first player to sink the long distance bucket.

The 35-year-old cager knocked down the historic 27-foot shot at the right wing off an Allen Durham kick out pass with 10:26 remaining in the second quarter to give Meralco a 20-17 edge.

“It’s always good to be in the record books. Happy I got to make it. Coach Diego (Lozano) said a couple of weeks ago that I’d be the first one to make it. We did,” Banchero said after the Bolts’ 99-94 win over the Hotshots.

Meralco went two-of-five from the 4-point range with Jolo Mendoza also making one in the contest.

Banchero noted that every victory in this conference will be crucial with a tight elimination round schedule in light of Gilas Pilipinas’ upcoming international stints.

“I’m just happy we got the win tonight. That’s a tough team we played. They came prepared,” he said.

“I’m glad we’re able to get that win. This season, this conference is just going to go by quick, so every win is extremely important,” he added.

The Bolts will next face the TNT Tropang Giga on Aug. 22 at the Big Dome.