1. Bonel Balingit
After playing for the University of the Visayas during his college days, Bonel Balingit enjoyed a decent career in the pros. He is most remembered for suiting up for the Swift Mighty Meaties / Sunkist Orange Juicers. He was one of the biggest players in the league at that time and he turned his popularity into comedic stints on TV (Kool Ka Lang) and in movies (Ang Pinakamahabang Baba sa Balat ng Lupa, 'Tong Tatlong Tatay Kong Pakitong Kitong, Isprikitik: Walastik Kung Pumitik).
2. Yoyong Martirez
"Hinde, nagpapaliwanag lang." That single punchline made Yoyong Martirez a staple in '90s comedy movies. But not everyone knows that Martirez was a legitimate baller. He was once one of the best point guards in the country and was a member of the 1972 men's basketball team that played in the 1972 Olympics. Martirez was also part of the 1973 Philippine team that won what was then the equivalent of the FIBA Asia Cup.
3. Jimmy Santos
Known mostly today as a mainstay of Eat Bulaga!, Jimmy Santos also has an extensive filmography that include the iconic Pinoy comedies Bondying: The Little Big Boy and Wooly Booly: Ang Classmate Kong Alien. But aside from that, Santos should also be recognized as a legitimate basketball player, having suited up beside the great Philip Cezar to win the 1972 NCAA Championship for then Jose Rizal College Heavy Bombers. Santos went on to play in the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association (MICAA) and for a few games in the PBA.
4. Joey Marquez
Joey Marquez as a comedian needs no introduction. But before becoming one of the country's most recognizable figures in comedy (and local showbiz in general), Marquez played for almost seven years in the PBA. In an interview, Marquez said his then PBA team made him choose between playing or appearing on TV. Recognizing that professional basketball is not a long-term option, he chose TV.
5. Benjie Paras
Before starring in many classic '90s comedy movies alongside other comedy legends like Babalu and Roderick Paulate, Benjie Paras was already a superstar on the basketball court. His first big accomplishment was to give the UP Fighting Maroons a championship, something that succeeding UP teams have never repeated since. Soon after, Paras became the first and only PBA player to simultaneously win the Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards in the PBA. Paras's collection of individual accolades and championships make him arguably the best power forward in Philippine basketball history.