Top 25 BEST POOL SHOTS of All Time

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Many people have suggested that Chris Melling's shot sequence (Shot 2) should be #1 instead of Efren's Z-shot. An argument can certainly be made for that choice, and I was honestly torn with the decision. However, I chose Efren's shot because It wasn't just the shot. It was the match, opponent, situation, shot choice, difficulty level, outcome, etc. For more info, see my "Why EFREN’S Z-SHOT Is So Legendary, and Bending-Kick Follow-Up" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mainaaWjfa2Bm8U Some people have also suggested that Jimmy White's long kick bank combo (Shot 22) should be much higher on the list. Some people also think it shouldn't even be in the Top 25 since it was so fluky. Regardless, the shot was certainly spectacular. I had a hard time deciding where it should go, but I can see how some people might think it should be in the Top 5. *CORRECTIONS:* 1:42 - Sorry if I offended any Sid Waddell fans out there with my “British gibberish” comment. Sid was a great commentator and I always enjoyed listening to him, even if I couldn’t always understand what he was saying. RIP Sid. 4:42 - Shot 16 is missing the full sequence since KZbin cut out part of the video due to a Copyright complaint. The whole shot sequence is still available here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l17QcquNZdBoh80 16:17 - it was a 5-8 combo, not a 3-8 combo. *Contents with Source Video Links:* 0:00 - Intro *0:11** - Shots 25-21* - Shot 25 - Efren Reyes - two-rail kick with carom off three rails: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3zHc5uGnJVkjKOo=47m18s - Shot 24 - Jayson Shaw - massé kick: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpe0k6Goa7yXhdU - Shot 23 - Shane VanBoening - kick jump carom for the win: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWrIgKWurNBqfpY - Shot 22 - Jimmy White - long kick bank combo: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWPYhYeMf5eIpbM - Shot 21 - Shane VanBoening - jump two-rail bank combo for the win: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6CwqaJobNSbppY *2:24** - Shots 20-16* - Shot 20 - Efren Reyes - jump over obstacle ball for shape: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXO7e2SZea9gZtU - Shot 19 - Shane VanBoening - two-way-shot carom for the Mosconi Cup win: facebook.com/watch/?v=520615962017728 - Shot 18 - Efren Reyes - four-rail kick shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJ2Ve3mFfNGhqtk - Shot 17 - Corey Deuel - bank with kiss clearance: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHebmYhrmNSqg9k - Shot 16 - Luong Dung - three-foul-rule jump escape sequence: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJKcqmuCq8R0Z9U *4:47** - Shots 15-11* - Shot 15 - Jeffrey DeLuna and Corey Deuel - full-table-length power draw: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZi0f4Kdi9RnZ7c and kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKKWqn6IpaiJp7M - Shot 14 - Efren Reyes - perpendicular kick off side-pocket point carom shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKrWlYGYq9uorM0 - Shot 13 - Earl Strickland - two-rail kick combo for the win: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5SsY6CiidOhjNk - Shot 12 - Efren Reyes - two-rail kick at pocket hanger with a carom for the win: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5iVoXlmm5KUadE - Shot 11 - Corey Deuel - jump draw off the end cushion for up-table position: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y2iwpmOlYt6Hr7M *7:37** - Shots 10-6* - Shot 10 - Albin Ouschan - double-the-rail break-out position shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aorFYYKubNV9qtk - Shot 9 - Carlo Biado - reverse spin across the table for shape: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpe1qWitYqlmnKc - Shot 8 - Efren Reyes - amazing safety sequence and one-rail back-cut hide: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGaTiZ2dZ9SnY7c - Shot 7 - Mike Dechaine - hop over obstacle ball with massé break out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bouyoHVvnLSCh7s - Shot 6 - Alex Pagulayan - OB jump to clear obstacle and get position: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmLdYYalm7Ghrdk *10:54** - Shots 5-2* - Shot 5 - Corey Deuel - fancy power draw across the table: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIeno42Ba7ujq7c - Shot 4 - Alain Martel - incredible rail-jump-carom safety escape: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHrRXo13Z7dopbM - Shot 3 - Nick Varner - amazing sequence - two-rail kick bank, long one-rail kick, and finesse runout: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b6Wxg2OamtZkgM0 - Shot 2 - Chris Melling - amazing sequence - timed carom kick combo, long massé shot, and four-rail bank through traffic: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHynaHiar7Kdd68 *14:57** - Shot 1* - Efren Reyes - famous Z-shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5iVoXlmm5KUadE 16:10 - Wrap Up 16:44 ---- shot collage *Additional Resources:* - Shot analysis and recreations: ---- TOP 10 EFREN REYES FAMOUS SHOTS ... And How to Shoot Them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGLGq4imbtBli80 ---- TOP 10 MOST FAMOUS POOL SHOTS OF ALL TIME … And How to Shoot Them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/l17QcquNZdBoh80 ---- More MOST FAMOUS POOL SHOTS of All Time … And How to Shoot Them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWrIgKWurNBqfpY ---- Top 10 GREATEST SAFETIES of All Time by EFREN REYES - kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6XRd2R6r7lggpo - Top 10 BEST SAFETIES of All Time … And How to Shoot Them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnZZItvqqt4j68 ---- GREATEST POOL MATCH of All Time - Reyes vs. Strickland - with the Famous Z-Shot - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM ---- Analysis of the MOST SHOCKING POOL MATCH of All Time - Sigel vs. Varner - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b6Wxg2OamtZkgM0 - collection of great one-pocket shots: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/game/one-pocket/ - collection of great safeties: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/safety/examples/ - collection of great pool shots: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ - “I Got Lucky” shirts, mugs, and posters: drdavebilliardtshirts.com/ *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@2869may]

Great kick at 10:30 by Shane...! kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKrYhZion5ycqa8

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@2869may Thanks for the link. That is not Top 25 worthy, IMO, but I've added it here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Thanks again.

[@2869may]

@@DrDaveBilliards It may not be top 25, but it's a hell of a shot for sure..!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@2869may Agreed.

[@davidmellish3295]

I'm British and I can't understand Sid half the time lol I don't think you have offended anyone

[@vhinvhinantonio]

I am a Filipino, Efren is our neighbor. I saw he playing everytime. There are more amazing shots that camera didn't record. I love Efren he is funny and positive all the time. 😊

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That's one of the best things about Efren, his great personality.

[@vhinvhinantonio]

@Maiahi Fact sir

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@Maiahi That's the kind of person he is.

[@Zombie_Octopus]

Great to hear the legend is really as humble as he appears on tv.

[@MazDanRX795]

He got lucky

[@heythere9607]

There is something about Efren saying " I got lucky" that makes me laugh and smile all the time. Boy, he is such an awesome and chill dude.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT Lucky. :)

[@kroon275]

That's because he 'gets lucky' so often lol

[@mad7medieval7]

He carried 7 rabbits feet around with 100 lucky pennies and uncashed winning lottery tickets. So much lucky he's got tier lucky!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@mad7medieval7 I must also have a GOAT's foot in his cue case. :)

[@mad7medieval7]

@@DrDaveBilliards idk but it looks like witchcraft when he on the table! His cueing is unmatched

[@crosswalker1547]

Not just one player, not just one game. This a good archive of pool shots.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. Thanks!

[@TomRSmith88]

Dr. Dave highlighting Kaci's response to Jason Shaw's masse shot is the attention to detail we all needed.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked that. I tried to pick out things like this throughout the video.

[@MrJdsenior]

IIRC it was pointed out by the commentators at the time, but I agree with the sentiment. And true elsewhere. It was hilarious, as was Shaw's response. He literally threw his head back and let out a belly laugh. I thought the funniest part of that segment was Dave deeming it a "decent safety". I would kill for a safety of that quality at certain times. It looks like he may have a natural bank there, but it also looks like there would have been some 'forcing' going on, had he attempted that route. Hard to tell from the videos frequently though, as when they get on the shot lines with another camera you can clearly see the player doesn't have that option. It's amazing when these guys pull off these VERY low percentage shots, but also they miss those shots even more routinely (I doubt that is nearly a fifty percenter, even from the' pool gods') and that's not worth showing. I do realize some of their 70% shots are about 10% for mere mortals, so there's that. If you've ever watched them (pros) goof off in practice, or in very low money games when they are just freewheeling, you see these type shots accomplished much more often. I watched Justin Hall pull off several shots virtually at this level, playing one pocket almost in a row one day. They do play at a level that begs belief, at times.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@MrJdsenior Good points and well stated.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@danielmclaughlin376 Me too, especially Jayson's good-natured enjoyment of Kaci's reaction.

[@dan8pool]

👍 🎱

[@Keizerin]

7 out of 25 coming from the one and only Magician. :D He’s clearly the GOAT.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

No doubt about that.

[@Grayback1973]

Love the Efren "I got lucky" voice over on all of his shots!! What a great touch....laughing every time!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. I never get tired of hearing it.

[@MagnoliaGumbo333]

I laughed everytime also

[@dlumis]

made me chuckle every time too, too funny

[@dpatrick5164]

I once lost a game of 8 ball to a friend who ran the rack without shooting a single ball into the pocket he was aiming for until he was left with a straight in shot on the 8 into the side pocket. If Efren thinks he got lucky, he needed to meet my friend.

[@dlumis]

@@dpatrick5164 LOL, you should know that IPA 8 ball rules require a player to call all shots, so your friend would be very much out of luck playing by the right rules. Still laughed my ass off though.

[@wavemaker2077]

That 4 rail shot by Efren is worthy of top 5. That side pocket 90 degrees shot by Efren is worthy of top ten for being so unique that it might be the only shot ever attempted.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Those Efren shots were definitely special. If you want to see a lot more amazing Efren shots, check out the links and videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Enjoy!

[@wootie118]

This

[@JmOnEyXz]

Seeing this video, Efren, Earl, Miko and others; helped me regain some of the memories I had lost in life from a head injury nearly 30 years ago. I appreciate the effort put into making this

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@JmOnEyXz I’m glad you enjoyed it. I never get tired of seeing these classic shots.

[@ronskayakingandfishing414]

Thanks Dr. Dave. I've actually seen every one of those before, but it was nice to seeing them in a compilation like this. Great job, nice to relive these amazing shots.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. I tried to sneak in a few shots that haven't appeared much in lists like this, but any hard-core pool player or fan has already seen them all.

[@OverseerKevin]

The Chris Melling run was the greatest run I've ever seen. The difficulty of shots, and the creativity to find the shots was amazing

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep

[@julieberbuni7454]

Easy to pull off when it's not a Hill - Hill Championship shot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@julieberbuni7454 … still not “easy,” but definitely easier.

[@tackywacky99]

Efren kicking off the pocket point just shows how much he's practiced his whole life

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. He knows all the shots because he has practiced all of them before.

[@arconeagain]

I used to practise that sort of thing. Applying it in the pressure of a game, different kettle of fish. So the fullest of respect.

[@butchie0415]

That Efren " I got lucky" cracks me up every time! Great video Doc!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Me too. Thanks!

[@kelvikelv5322]

Very good compilation! I was waiting for that Chris Melling runout and you had it ranked well. Of course the "Z Shot" is legendary!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad I didn't disappoint.

[@bobrodneys6694]

I would’ve put Jimmy Whites kick bank shot in top 10, to be honest.

[@bobrodneys6694]

But that’s just my opinion, I’m glad he’s still in this vid :)

[@__muzika___24]

2016 All Japan Championship: Oi Naoyuki vs Efren Reyes kzbin.info/www/bejne/pn7HfI1jbJVqgrc at 20 : 37 of that video, Efren did an incredible shot estimating the speed of both one and nine balls

[@SetemkiaFawn]

Thank you very much for this well-considered and presented video. I really appreciate the extensive comments and links that you made available to everyone. This is really going above and beyond what would normally be expected. You are the best.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. Thank you for the supportive comment.

[@tomjohnson3141]

Thousands of awesome, truly incredible shots happen in bars and pool halls every week, they just don't get filmed. It's part of what makes the game so awesome.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. If everybody had every shot of every game video recorded over their life, everybody could have an awesome highlight reel.

[@tomjohnson3141]

@@DrDaveBilliards :) For sure.

[@CryptoSniper]

But the nerves playing before the camera and huge audience is different compare in bars and pool halls.

[@TheJsjr]

“Well i got lucken” 😂 literally got me every time I heard it

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I never get tired of hearing it.

[@brucemiller1696]

​@@DrDaveBilliardsin my opinion, he sounds like a doofus. Most of his shots are pure luck or misses that turned out in his favor. Very few of these shots were skill or called.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@brucemiller1696 The better you are, the “luckier” you get.

[@raugasai9135]

Some nice words at the end there by Strickland for Efren Reyes, thank you for that audio. Strickland may be ornery & a jerk sometimes because of his competitive nature but one can sense the amount of respect he has for Efren. After all, they've had some epic & memorable matches against each other.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Earl isn't "classy" often, but he was at the end of this match.

[@KevinMphotography]

I haven’t watched or shot pool in 30 years. These are amazing

[@archclient]

The Z shot is famous because its first of its kind. Its like the signature Air Jordan jump from free throw line. Anybody could do it now but none have shown its possible before Efren Bata.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@tsarNoir]

The "I got lucky" part from Efren reminds me of a phrase my old school teacher used to say "Luck in nothing but the byproduct of Hardwork"

[@kennybuttons1763]

He's representing the Philippines in the World Series of pool this year! It's in a couple weeks!

[@dwarner9158]

I got lucken

[@rocktalk7906]

I got lucken lol

[@dwarner9158]

@@rocktalk7906 lol that’s what it sounds like

[@rocktalk7906]

That’s what he said. I knew someone would mention it lol

[@hahnasty13]

The Z shot on hill hill is just phenomenal.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. The drama surrounding the shot, the opponent, the match situation, and the shot all contributed to making it #1. For those who want to learn more, I show highlights and discuss the match here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM Enjoy!

[@lindalarracas606]

@@DrDaveBilliards and 2 legends opposing each other

[@magnusesophagus8195]

Indeeeeeeeedd!

[@raceteamgui871]

This was one of the best "top X" videos I've ever seen, very thorough and detalied, organized. Great video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you!

[@kurtkensson2059]

Imagine all the great shots, from great players, that unfortunately, we'll never get to see. At least we have these to watch. Thanks to Dr. Dave, this compilation saves us from having to search through KZbin for hours. (Days? Weeks?)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I have collected links to these shots, and many others, for many years. If you want to see more, check out the videos and links here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Enjoy!

[@kurtkensson2059]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you.

[@kianjohnrosales4671]

Every time Efren say "well, I got lucky on that" make me smile... Ty. for sharing this awsome video.. Efren is the GOAT of billiard.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@erwinpastores7682]

Im filipino and im happy that dr dave always features great pool players here in the philippines. thank you dr. dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The Filipino players have certainly earned the right to be on these lists, especially Efren (the undisputed GOAT).

[@thetowndrunk988]

I certainly couldn’t have picked any better shots, or better order. Awesome stuff, as always Dr.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks!

[@adamlarcom4193]

#2 was epic and great shots one after the next, #1 one was well #1 for a reason

[@rubilindamanansala5500]

Hindi ako tagahanga ng billaird...pero ng makita ko sa youtube ang pag lalaro ni efren humanga ako at napabilib...and that is you call " Magic"...ang galing talaga !!...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Anybody can appreciate a GOAT, regardless of the sport or level of participation.

[@obi-potobi790]

Glad to see Chris Melling near the top, prolly the best clearance I've seen. Efrens shot deserves the no 1 slot though. Great selection.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. Obviously, I agree! :)

[@jesusantonioarandadonayre957]

Efren is the best of all times. This ranking was a lot of fun. Thank you!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@DeeboComing]

Efren is the GOAT. It's gonna be a sad day when he leaves us 😭

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The pool world has definitely been blessed by his presence.

[@jonnycarroll6676]

Efren will never (immortal) leave pool memory.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

No doubt about that!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I've done my part to help ensure this by featuring Efren in many of my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" video series here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check them out.

[@jeffren70]

The Z shot was great and 2 of the shots on the list were from this same game. However, the tables at the Sands had buckets for pockets in this era. You could literally hit quarter way up the rail and still make it with pocket speed. Nice compilation Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. The tight pockets of today make some of these Top 25 Shots tough propositions. I'm glad you liked the compilation. I enjoyed putting it together, even though it did take forever (but it was worth it).

[@NextOfKen730]

What am absolutely beautiful and inspiring compilation! Thank you so much, Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for all your supportive comments. I appreciate it.

[@Shadec1]

I mostly watch snooker, having just discovered your yt channel after playing pool for 6 years is such a reward, thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you think so. Enjoy!

[@charlessanders4586]

I shot a lot of pool in the late 80s and early 90s, including them, truly an era...

[@QueLastima]

The heyday of pool in the late 20th century.

[@duaneross9271]

Great choices on the 25. Spectacular shots by everyone. Most folks don't realize how awesome those shots actually were.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@jonathanbailey4904]

Dr. Dave, I would say the only thing you missed was the priceless reaction Chris Melling had after that runout. He sat down, looked over at Mika, giggled and shrugged his shoulders like, "I don't know what happened." It's my favorite part of that video.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. I should have included that.

[@5000rgb]

The Mika had to come over and shake his hand and congratulate him on the epic runout.

[@thomasdoubleday4430]

Great pick of best shots!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! Not everybody agrees on the order of 1 and 2, but they can do their own video if they want to. :)

[@dinoblack5648]

Even after 100 years, Bata will always be the ultimate player of all time

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You are probably right; although, I hope you are wrong. That would be awesome to see players even better than Efren.

[@gamerxzon3827]

@@DrDaveBilliardsthat time will eventually come

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@gamerxzon3827 Agreed. The human race continues to improve at everything (except in the political/government realm).

[@fxrtiveyt7573]

Thanks Dave! That was fab!! So super! I enjoyed that video great work! 😍😍😍🤩🤩🤩🤣🤣🙂🙂🤖

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

[@thegodofpez]

Fantastic list.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@redringofdeathgamer]

The cue ball graphic make these videos more than enjoyable but informative. Best pocket billiard training online.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you think so.

[@KlowdZzz]

Earl Strickland admitting that anybody is even good says a lot. He actually tells us all that Efren is the best he’s ever played. Case closed.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Earl calling Efren the Greatest is very meaningful.

[@lawrencemaweu]

Excellent compilation. Alvin Martel's shot is one of the sickest, considering the level of difficulty

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. Agreed!

[@EynkiYoom]

As a fan of Efren.. I must admit that Melling's run was by far the sickest of all. In fact, his first shot after the break was the craziest.. But the one of the yellow.. Thats pure intuition how to use force in order to bend the cushion like that. Regardless of that, amazing vid.. I consider myself as someone who watched so manyyy vids on pool, but some of these shots u showed, Ive never seen.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Melling's amazing shot sequence was definitely a close 2nd, but the situation/opponent/outcome surrounding Efren's shot made it more epic, IMO, per the info here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM Enjoy! PS: I'm glad you liked the video and saw a few shots new to you.

[@stuartf2914]

Some of Jayson Shaws shots are outstanding.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@allenq.697]

Such a very nice collection. Great job. Well, I think “I got lucky” to stumble onto this video. 🎱😁 Still amazed to see the score was dead-even before Efren made that Z shot. All at stake.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you "Got Lucky." :)

[@frankbrodie5168]

Absolutely top compilation of great pool shots. The thing with top players is being able to play the sublime shots regularly. And play good shots most of the rest of the time. I was a bog standard 9 ball pool league player in a pool hall in Rotherham that had a dozen 9 foot US pool tables. I'll tell you now that I've played shots as spectacular as most of these single shot ones in my time. And sometimes I even meant to do it lol. The thing with pool is that if you just go for the most ridiculous shots all the time, sometimes they work. And mostly they don't. But bog standard pool players can't always capitalise on your mistakes.

[@justinbassman0473]

Efren the magician is the most skilled player

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... especially with kicks.

[@TheSunIsMyDestroyer]

all of these people are on a different level

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. That's why most of them are world-class pros.

[@theunknownstuntman4010]

Wish I could've seen more of Efren Reyes in his prime, remember being mesmerised by Francisco Bustamante/Earl Stickland when I 1st started watching 9 ball but my fave current player is Jayson Shaw

[@DrDaveBilliards]

All the greats are fun to watch. Luckily, there is a ton of Efren match videos available online. FYI, some of the best are linked here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ Enjoy!

[@DANTHETUBEMAN]

Some increasable talent in this vid. I love me that it's all in and under comparisons.

[@BergasJuergas]

Gràcies per el vídeo!!! Salutacions des de Mallorca Bros!!! Alobiuu Willy Boom!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome! Thanks for the comment.

[@phishfearme2]

"The more i practice the luckier i get" - Efren

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@bereaben83]

Elaine Martel's is the winner for me. The creativity, skill and balls to play it were magical!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That was definitely one of the "lowest percentage" shots in the list.

[@bryanbrown3871]

I think there was a couple from Efrens farewell tour and a couple from earl strickland but other than that, this really is the best 25 shots ever in pool history great job.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I purposefully included only shots from pro tournament matches. There are also lots of great shots from exhibition matches. I have many linked here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ If you or others have more to share, please post links here. Thanks!

[@WickedGaming005]

i like pool as an outsider and didnt know about all these terms so it was interesting learning as i watched, also unfamiliar w some of the rules but this seems like a great channel, subbed

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Welcome aboard. FYI, if you want to learn more about pool terminology and rules, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/terminology/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/resources/rules/ Enjoy!

[@justynshovlowsky4555]

The timing on Corey’s 8 ball combo/kiss is so unbelievably impressive. Most people would look at that and not realize what it takes to accomplish that shot

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@knocknockassault8127]

efren is an urban legend that became a reality that ends up an urban legend again and his stories will go on for eternity. what i meant is there are tons of unrecorded shots stories of efren that you just cant even imagine.

[@coffeeenglish4051]

Great video again, Dr Dave. How about recreating those you hadn't done so far? To give us the real insight.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I have already recreated all of them except Corey's clearance bank (17) in all the videos here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD I think the Corey shot is actually fairly easy to shoot once you have the balls set up right because the bank and kiss are wired. Enjoy!

[@coffeeenglish4051]

@@DrDaveBilliards well then, that is fantastic, thanks once again. Keep swerving 😊

[@momentumcharting6700]

Really nice compilation. Thanks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. FYI, I have a lot more like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check it out.

[@runradicalrun]

The greatest pool player of all time, the Magician Efren "Bata" Reyes!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

No question, certainly in the “modern era.”

[@new2POOL208]

@G C because he liked the magicians

[@new2POOL208]

@G C hug?

[@dan8pool]

👍 🎱

[@nickuzelac3065]

Greatest player of his time

[@robnorcia3818]

Omg! Those were amazing. Thank you for sharing them!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. You're welcome.

[@bass747]

That Sigel/Varner match is my favorite match ever I think. So much drama. Sigel jumps out to a crazy lead, Varner has that rack we see in this highlight, then the last rack is sooooo dramatic.

[@akhil7110]

who won?

[@CesarMartinez-gi9de]

Don’t comprehend how I could be so casual about such shots, I’d be spinning on my head if I saw some of these in person

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Spinning on your head would make a good video too. A career on TikTok might be in your future. :)

[@christophera3330]

"I got lucky, nhehe" lmaaaaaaaaooooo!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The better you are, and the more you practice, the luckier you get.

[@samwell8943]

So many magical shots by Efren

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That’s why he’s called “The Magician.”

[@poolhustlersinc]

Ooohhhh.... I gotta see the Doctor's list of best shots. There may be a few I've seen not mentioned.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Let me know what you think after you watch it. Were there any surprises?

[@poolhustlersinc]

@@DrDaveBilliards It's a great list. 👍 I hoped #4 was going to be on here. I know you were probably just going over professionals... but this is one of the best shots I've ever seen. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oH7XqmWhZ9yrprc

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the link. You are correct. I included only pro shots from actual pro tournament matches.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@poolhustlersinc All the shots in the Top 5-10 (especially Shot 4) are worthy as the Top 1 shot of all time.

[@poolhustlersinc]

@@DrDaveBilliards YOOOO!!!! I SHARED THE WRONG LINK: kzbin.infoIAB7KACV4eM?feature=share

[@capoman1]

Thanks for that compilation Dave. I'll take more. They don't have to be ranked or "the best" just great shots.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I have a lot more like this here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ Enjoy!

[@MikeAbassi]

I was just waiting for the magical Chris Melling rack 🙌🏻 Great video! As always Dr. Dave 🎱

[@DrDaveBilliards]

As was appropriate, you had to wait nearly to the end. I contemplated making it #1, but the drama around Efren's shot is tough to beat. See: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM

[@charlesshepherd2004]

What I love about pool is that every now and then you get lucky and look like a pro 😎. At least for me, by far the amateur of all amateurs.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

And when you get better, you get "lucky" even more :)

[@garygullett6416]

Awesome shots!! Idk how Shane’s double bridge jump shot in the US Open against Dennis didn’t make the top 25.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. FYI, I have links to lots of cool creative bridge shots in the video description here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIjYnJyodtGVars Check them out.

[@TheSnookerGym]

Great video Dr Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@bottosiwan252]

Well done , highly entertaining stuff . I wish I had 10% of Reyes' talent . This man is so good and relaxed , not like these loudmouths Sigel and Strickland. I watch them only on mute, and playing music . Saw almost all my favorite shots . Couple of new ones too .

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. Thank you for watching.

[@nicolau2]

Great vid. Well explained but not too much. Perfect. Cheers

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. This one was fun to make.

[@duaneross9271]

Jimmy white,did have a fricking AWSOME SHOT.

[@realeyesrealisereallies97]

He is honestly one of the most talented snooker players of all time, absolute genius

[@MedicatedActivities]

So inspiring! Loved this! Oh yeah and “I got lucky!” Hahaha

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching.

[@michaelbailey1578]

That was excellent, like all your other work. Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. FYI, I have a lot more like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Enjoy!

[@MikeJB6]

Alain Martel's shot is my favourite all-time shot and should be placed at number 2 or 3 imo, but a great selection of super shots all the same.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That may well be the most impressive pro match pool shot that was ever captured on video (even if it was a little fluke-ish). But I stand by my Top 5, taking everything into consideration (the player, the opponent, the tournament, the match situation, etc.).

[@trailerwookie]

@@DrDaveBilliards Alain's shot was truly a bit of a fluke. He was just trying to make contact with the OB and possibly fluke it it. Instead, he got a larger fluke with the rebound carom.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. He got a huge fluke beyond the large fluke he was probably hoping for.

[@jdbankshot]

@@trailerwookie nope. not a fluke, trust me.

[@GoesByJ]

I know nothing about pool but these shots look incredible.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear that, especially from a non pool player.

[@humblegod7727]

This Efren guy looks pretty good. He sould join more tournaments

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I bet he would win some, even at his ripe old age of 66.

[@thedream6791]

I don't get your joke

[@ChillingFacility]

Check google on how many tournament wins he has

[@jaspereggs2749]

Wtf this guy talking

[@thedream6791]

@@ChillingFacility He probably is too old now to participate.

[@conner-rob]

My grandpa loved billiards, I wish he was here to see this channel

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That is nice of you to say, for me and your grandpa. Thanks.

[@michaeltveten8458]

I think most of us have made similar shots as those in this video……But I’ve never done it in the situations that these masters have done it…..The pressure is truly amazing…..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated ... and true.

[@KevinHoneysett]

The best ever ❤

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it.

[@reivaxmit4323]

Why am i not surprised to see the top 1.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... because the GOAT belongs there.

[@kiciacoldspring1621]

These were awesome.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. FYI, I have a lot more videos like this here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Enjoy!

[@chappYcast]

Isn't #2 just obviously the best shot AND best shot sequence of all time?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Any of the shots or sequences in the Top 5 (or even Top 10) could have the top spot, but the whole story around Efren's shot makes it the clear winner, IMO. See: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM

[@nickpatrick7021]

Which shot from #2? I might agree if you mean the masse. The four railer is actually a pretty predictable shot. Still really good though

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@nickpatrick7021 None of Melling's 3 shots is worthy of the Top 25 list on its own, but making all three in the same game ... that's special.

[@nickpatrick7021]

@@DrDaveBilliards No doubt. I've never seen a better out in 8 ball

[@dan8pool]

👍 🎱

[@antondavis33]

Great video, love the context you gave when necessary

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it.

[@rayb1966]

”I got lucky on that one.”, 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 Yah, 👌🏻. 😎

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The better you are, and teh more you practice, the luckier you get, and Efren is the best ever. :)

[@rayb1966]

@@DrDaveBilliards Your videos are spot on great. Thanks for spending the time to create them. ❤️

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! I'm glad you like my stuff.

[@lonpearson2134]

Good display of some great shots

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. This video was fun to research and put together. FYI, I have a lot more like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check them out.

[@avienated]

Some fantastic shots here. I'm a big fan of Reyes, but as a rookie player I don't get why the Z-shot is #1. Surely some of his 4 walls are better, what am I missing?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I chose the Z-shot as #1 mostly because of the drama surrounding the shot (the match, opponent, situation, shot choice, difficulty level, outcome, etc.). For more info, see my "GREATEST POOL MATCH of All Time - Reyes vs. Strickland - with the Famous Z-Shot" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM

[@avienated]

@@DrDaveBilliards ok, thank you for taking the time to explain.

[@raeannuria5691]

Thank You for posting this!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. FYI, I have a lot more videos like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check them out.

[@derekd.4156]

I kept hearing “like a dragon” 😂

[@RichD746]

I gotta work in the morning. Every time I watch these videos, it's so hard to not go play "a couple games"......which actually means about 30 games

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Watching great play and seeing great shots is inspiring.

[@djrdjr8888]

Mr. Reyes did get lucky. As hard as he has worked, he was lucky to be born so gifted. And we are lucky he didn't waste that talent, instead becoming possibly the greatest to ever hold a cue stick. He is so fun to watch.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The better you are, the luckier you get. He GOaT Lucky. :)

[@jonnycarroll6676]

The exotic shots are the real entertainment.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. The shot montage at the end lets you see all the glory in a short time: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6K3dHucf5p3rNU

[@KvnDWr]

1:19 When this is #23 you know the list is about to be insane

[@DrDaveBilliards]

No doubt about that.

[@KvnDWr]

@@DrDaveBilliards Honestly, it should be higher... It's top 15 for sure, should probably replace Efren's #12 shot, but I guess it's all subjective and preference when the options are this good

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@KvnDWr All of these shots are so good, it is tough to rank them. Although, there is no doubt that the Top 2, Top 5, and Top 10 are fairly solid. See also the info in the pinned comment.

[@KvnDWr]

@@DrDaveBilliards Absolutely, not criticizing just offering my opinion. Your vids have helped me take my game to another level and i'm very grateful for the effort you put in!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@KvnDWr I’m glad to hear it. Continued good luck with your game.

[@alisadianisevichus]

Such a great video! Was sooo interesting to watch 😍😍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. It was fun to create.

[@josephesparza4280]

Rollie, if you’re reading this, recreate the Carlo Biado shot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I re-created it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWrIgKWurNBqfpY Check it out.

[@josephesparza4280]

I sure will DrDave.

[@AJMangino]

World of Pool & Billiards did it too... kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4uog5muqddgg9U