Why EFREN’S Z-SHOT is so Legendary, and Bending-Kick Follow-Up

Dr. Dave tells the complete story of Efren "Bata" "The Magician" Reyes' legendary Z-shot, explaining why the shot is so famous. He also looks closer at the bending-kick alternative that was questioned by so many commenters in a previous video.
Contents:
0:00 - Intro
0:21 - Greatness
3:15 - Toughness
4:22 - Bending Kick Alternative
8:29 - Wrap Up
Supporting Resources:
- “Top 25 Pool Shots of All Time” video: • Top 25 BEST POOL SHOTS...
- “Greatest Match of All Time” video: • GREATEST POOL MATCH of...
- “Was the Z-Shot Efren’s Best Option” video: • Was the Z-SHOT Efren’s...
- “Top 10 Efren Reyes Most Famous Shots” video: • TOP 10 EFREN REYES FAM...
- Efren “GOAT Hero,” “I Got Lucky,” “Do What Efren Would Do,” and “I GOaT Lucky” shirts/caps/mugs: drdavebilliardtshirts.com
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Good Luck With Your Game!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:21 - Greatness 3:15 - Toughness 4:22 - Bending Kick Alternative 8:29 - Wrap Up *Supporting Resources:* - “Top 25 Pool Shots of All Time” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6K3dHucf5p3rNU - “Greatest Match of All Time” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM - “Was the Z-Shot Efren’s Best Option” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKiniJ-miK-jm7s - “Top 10 Efren Reyes Most Famous Shots” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGLGq4imbtBli80 - Efren “GOAT Hero,” “I Got Lucky,” “Do What Efren Would Do,” and “I GOaT Lucky” shirts/caps/mugs: drdavebilliardtshirts.com *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@psijicassassin7166]

Add Carlo Biado to the list kzbin.info/www/bejne/i2fUgWV8etqqpdU

[@greggybada]

1:24 HE DIDN"T PLAY SAFE... THAT WAS DELIBIRATE...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@greggybada He was definitely trying to play safe to leave Earl in a really tough spot. Instead, Efren pocketed the ball by mistake and was forced to shoot the Z-shot. We are glad he did because we got to see one of the best shots in pool history.

[@greggybada]

@@DrDaveBilliards HE WAS POINTING AT IT TO TELL STRICKLAND TO WATCH IT DROP... AND HE SAID IT HIMSELF... HAVE YOU TALKED TO EFREN??? YOU CAN'T EVEN UNDERSTAND THE LANGUAGE HE SPEAKS... IF HE WANTED TO PLAY SAFE, HE WOULDN'T HAVE MADE THAT MISTAKE... ESPECIALLY AT THAT AGE...

[@remigiomagaan4550]

It was a "one-miss-you-die situation". After a brief analysis, Efren took it. The shot of the century was made by the GOAT. Bravo, Efren!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@midnightsnack1306]

Being able to execute under intense tournament pressure is what separates the Legend from us mere mortals.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

… execute … and invent.

[@john_vin]

What I love about your videos is you argue objectively and back it up with evidence.Keep doing what you do and don't mind other people's opposing sentiments, you know what you're talking about and you are a great contribution to pool.I'm a fan here.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for the positive feedback. I appreciate it.

[@GreenThumb121]

Well stated. Dr. Dave is the best at demonstrating and providing fundamental physics-based explanations.

[@OrrosGG]

I agree, in fact if the whole world approached problems or normal topics objectively we would all be in a better world. Without superstitions or myths. And Dave is just great at explaining things.

[@UnliRide]

When the opponent who's a legend himself is amazed and applauds the move, you know it's a legendary move.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. That was a rare reaction from Earl!

[@krampus1094]

​@@DrDaveBilliardsyep, I'm a fan of earl but he's probably the most stubborn palyer in pool history

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@krampus1094 "Stubborn" is a kind choice of terms. :)

[@virgilverzola6507]

To think that most if not all of the spectators are also professional pool players and are no strangers to Efren's ability and yet still expressed that spontaneous applause and ovation after the shot obviously lends a credence to your statement that that shot of Efren was indeed a legendary one. Efren's taking the risk of doing that shot in a very crucial moment in the game only proves that he has an excellent geometrical grasp of the angles in a pool table. His peers' calling him the magician is indeed a fitting attribute for a guy who is the very best that ever handled a pool stick.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@nev781]

best example is 2:27, people who doesnt know the game wont understand what happened but audience did in less than 15 seconds. that tells you they have to be experienced players or playing it as a hobby

[@Katimoy]

Considering the intense during that time with the score both 12 and race to 13 with an opponent like Earl Strickland who is also a hall of famer, no one would think like Efren to risk that shot than to do the playing safe move, A simple mistake would really be an unforgettable experience during this time but Efren did it. That's really goes to the top legendary shots.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@dervish816]

Add to that, Earl had the momentum. He scored the last 2 or 3 pts tying the score at 12 a piece and almost completing a come from behind win. Efren hardly visited the table for the last 3 or 4 racks.

[@Katimoy]

@@dervish816 agree considering the money involved, who would risk that out of this world shot than to do the playing safe strategy? Even the hard to please Earl had to acknowledge it😅

[@richardcruz5725]

True..

[@joelewis8770]

Considering the intense what? Intense is an adjective and asking for a noun to describe.

[@jeffsebastianj]

This was at a time when you do not see these shots executed often in matches before. Earl Strickland said in the post match interview that he had only seen this shot once befote Efren's.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is definitely a shot you don't want to be forced into, but on rare occasion, it might be the only desperate option available.

[@apolloistaphquibs5075]

this shot makes you realize that Efren's got Ice on his veins. On hill-hill match, against possibly his greatest rival. I noticed a lot of players today, in a way or another Efren has an influence. Like the kicks and how the rails are used for the prep. Even safety battles.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@djverse8329]

It is not just about making the shot, but the preparation for the next ball is equally important. Another factor is the situation itself. The game was tied with the last 4 balls remaining on the table. You are right, there are different options however as history would have wanted it, the legendary shot was made instead.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

These reasons, along with the others mentioned in my video, are why this is one of the greatest shot of all time.

[@konaqua122]

The legendary shot is a lucky fluke. Even Efren said that he was not aiming for the shot to pocket the ball. He just wants to hit it. It was simply fate that day that he made the luckiest shot of the day making him win the game. If you would argue with my thoughts, blame Efren. He is the one who said that he didn't plan to pokcet the ball. I was just iterating on it.

[@theobvu]

@@konaqua122 u must be new to watching Efren he always always say he just got lucky. he is just humble

[@newdiary6978]

@@konaqua122 you must be new in pool lol

[@FAQ729]

@@konaqua122 dude just discover efren hours ago when he comment, ask him why he is born in this world and he will reply to you the golden word "I was just lucky".

[@razzlemankd]

To play that Evren Reyes famous Z shot 100 times deserves a like, but to show the other way it could have been played is really cool too 👍that clearance by Chris Melling is unbelievable, I've watched that many times 😀

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think my 100 attempts was worthy of a "Like." :)

[@jaykyleph]

Whenever I see Efren's legendary Z shot, I click like.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... especially if the video includes Efren's famous "I Got Luck" dance.

[@jaykyleph]

@@DrDaveBilliards You're absolutely right. 😅

[@antonnyo3694]

I agree this is the greatest shot of all time; given the degree of difficulty and this was hill-hill. Like what the commentator said, Efern was "Dead in the water." I've seen this game in 1995. Watching the game, after Efren pocketed the 8 ball accidentally, I said to myself, Efren lost the game. And probably even everyone watching the game have had the same judgement. No matter how you look at the position of the remaining balls on the table, there was no way Efren will leave the building as the winner. However, Efren took that shot as it was the only available shot where there's a very small percentage of him pocketing that 5 ball. Milling meanwhile made that shot with no pressure given the situation of the game and he had a direct shot to the target ball. Efren though took that shot at the 5 ball with 2 rail bank and no direct shot/hit at the target ball. This shot Efren made would have to take years of playing the game, knowing the angle, where to hit the cue ball and the right spin. This shot of Efren is not arguably the greatest shot of all time. This is the greatest shot of all time. Efren is the father of Z shot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Many of his shots over the years have certainly seemed magical. Many can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/

[@leizlsicad9222]

Well said!

[@manchester8143]

Agreed this is the most insane shot in pool history.

[@bobbycuesroadhouse2204]

I agree with your analysis of this shot and why it is number 1, Great stuff Dr Dave!! Keep it going for us mere mortals trying to play better pool

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. That means a lot to a "mere mortal" like me.

[@skipmartin3469]

I am currently an APA 3-4. I have been playing league for a few years, but I have yet to be able to make all the shots I can see. With no other option that I could see, I tried and almost made the now famous "z" shot , it rolled the object ball half way to the pocket, but not in. There was a bit of positive noise afterwards, which I didn't think much about. A couple weeks later, I saw your video about Efren's greatest shot. It made me smile. "I got lucky."

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad a video of mine gave you a smile. I hope you have also learned some useful things from my stuff.

[@skipmartin3469]

@@DrDaveBilliards I certainly have, and it is greatly appreciated.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@skipmartin3469 I'm glad to hear it. Good luck with your game!

[@apexpredatorbilliardstraining]

You are an amazing creature Dr Dave... And just your approach to ppl comments is mind-blowing.... You are emotional less and very analystical.... THANKS 🇯🇲

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@dryclimateutah]

1 in 23 attempts is less than 5% chance to make the ball. If Efren knows it's about a 1 in 23 chance, there's probably more to his thought process than making the ball. Everyone makes a tough shot when they don't think it will go every now and then. Efren does it more often than the rest of us because of his knowledge, accuracy and consistent stroke. It was an amazing shot. But making a shot with less than 5% chance that it will go definitely had some luck to it. And I admire Efren for objectively and humbly admitting he was fortunate to make the shot. Sometimes just hitting the ball is good enough to make it. He couldn't have made it without skill and knowledge, but it also needed a little bit of pixie dust (magic/luck). He was on fire! When you are hot, you are hot. Luck happens a lot in pool and accepting that goes a long way for helping people to stay calm and collected while playing someone who happened to get lucky on a tough shot. I see people get angry a lot because their opponent got lucky. I know a lot of players who would have been upset that their opponent hooked their self by accidentally pocketing a ball and then they kick out of it and run out. They see it as unfair. I want to point out that Earl was impressively complementary on Efren's ability combined with the luck he needed to make that ball. I can tell Earl has a lot of respect for Efren. If a lesser skilled player happened to make that shot against Earl, he probably wouldn't have been as appreciative of the shot, and rightfully so. All I'm saying is that had Efren missed the shot, which would happen, say 22 out of 23 attempts, he might have still gotten safe by thinly hitting the 5 ball and sending the cue ball back to the other end rail. He might have still won the game/match that way. Had he hit the 5- ball fuller/head-on, the cue ball may have stayed on the top rail and sent the 5 ball towards the side pocket, either making it, or sending it down to the bottom rail near the center diamond. I think there was strategy involved on how Efren approached trying to hit the ball and he gave himself the best opportunity to win the game/match; and he happened to get a little bit of a nice roll in making the ball so he could continue the runout without turning the table over to Earl. I love this shot and I've watched it many times. I've even showed it to people I know who don't play pool. It may be one of, if not the, greatest shot ever. I still think Shane's shot against Earl in the Turning stone classic XXXII, in the final match, was a lot harder to accomplish. Shane was just kicking at his ball and hit it hard enough to get lucky enough to combo a ball into the 9 and bank it into the corner pocket. I still haven't seen anyone trying to replicate that shot... probably because it's less than 1% to ever make it again. But less than 5% or less than 1%, at what percentage are we willing to say a shot was lucky? In both cases the luck couldn't have happened without the knowledge of how to kick into the ball and the skill and accuracy to hit it on or near the point you need to in order to allow the luck to kick in.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. The better you are, the "luckier" you get. :)

[@xammendoza667]

That's why he is called The Magician for a reason.

[@guirosasilva]

To the rest of us. To Efren was 100% of rightness.

[@dvdhr1]

efren said 1 of 23 he is the 1 ... the rest in 23

[@dervish816]

Even though he said he was just trying to hit the object ball, we know that with his caliber he was trying to hit it at an angle with the possibility to make it. His gratitude towards Lady Luck is built-in to him and he never forgets to acknowledge luck everytime he makes a seemingly impossible shot.

[@RockSpoon123]

Dr. Dave, you never disappoint with your videos!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so. Be sure to watch the whole thing. Lots of good stuff in this one.

[@kristoffer2250]

I don't know shit about pool but the way you explained it, building up to the shot, made me so hyped when you did play the video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. That was the goal of the video.

[@xtianebernal]

Absolute humility. Saying he was just trying to make the shot even though he knows it's difficult. And that it would take 23 tries when he did it in one go at a high risk situation. Goodness.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@kakkelikokkeli]

Love your dedication to analyse and explain things

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I love it too! :)

[@lindafoxwood78]

5:45 I see 2 shots: 1. Hard Right English to pass the 7 ball and turning to hit the ball into the corner or 2. Hard Left English to turn the cue ball to make the ball into the left pocket beside me. I could not even see the shot that he made. Excellent eyes and shot he made.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, lots so reasonable options are presented in my "Was the Z-Shot Efren’s Best Option” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKiniJ-miK-jm7s Check it out.

[@alexasiricortanayuen7847]

"A master escaped from his own difficult trap."

[@rapidPACMAN]

100% agree with you Dr. Dave that Efren's Z shot is, and will be the single best shot made in a championship game on a hill-hill. Efren owns the GOAT title and also the best shot ever made. Truly well said.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@sephiroth6227]

@@DrDaveBilliards he is always lucky, according to Efren

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@sephiroth6227 The better you are, the "luckier" you get.

[@Ramp10er]

I remember watching the match on TV. I did not know he will do the shot I was thinking. When he did I told myself "That was my shot!..." From then on I know Efren is a good player...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He was the GOAT well before that shot.

[@oscarbuenaobrajr.9863]

I agree. That Z shot is really legendary

[@MeganOHowe]

I made a Z kick shot on Friday night at the bar on the 8! I was like WTF 😂of course when I try and do it again can't do it, really close attempts again but dam it's hard! the rails on the table I played on are kinda dead so definitely luck involved with my shot. Incredibly hard shot to execute.

[@spideken123]

Nice

[@nathanblaxall8703]

Great analysis as always - thank you for showing!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome!

[@Blessed.2.Teach.4God]

Z-shot is absolutely the greatest shot... If you get it, you get it.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I get it.

[@dljeung]

Great video Dave! Nice safety options on the 6 as well.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@billquiggle4187]

Dave, that was fun! Thank You!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. I had fun making it.

[@ChasingEnigma]

I can only imagine the tremendous pressure Efren must have felt before taking that shot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Most definitely. He thought about the shot a really long time before deciding, so it was obviously a tough and uncomfortable choice.

[@gregleak5134]

Dr dave I look forward to watching video something to learn every time

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it.

[@erushi5503]

I love how you used Sineskwela theme for when Efren was thinking for the Z-shot ahahaha Such nostalgia for my 24 year old mind

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is the theme song from the American TV game show Jeopardy!

[@kikimomikuto6689]

As always, nice vid Dr Dave. Maybe you can make a video next why Efren is arguably the GOAT. Will be looking forward to that.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I already have lots of videos showing why Efren is the GOAT here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Check them out.

[@kikimomikuto6689]

@@DrDaveBilliards I've seen all of them since I'm one of your avid followers. But in my opinion, they only showed how Efren is great. Maybe a compilation of facts about his prime days would be nice such as reason of him almost quitting pool because no one will play him, how top pros won't play him money matches without an advantageous handicaps, why they fear his name hence using an alias the first time he arrived in the US, how no one can beat him in the few weeks he arrived, why he was nominated to be featured in Times Magazine, and so on. Well, I hope you could do something like this since you are an established figure in the sport and you have many followers.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@kikimomikuto6689 That's a good idea, but it would take a lot of work and research. Also, I already have a really long list of videos I want to do, and it keeps getting longer.

[@kikimomikuto6689]

@@DrDaveBilliards Will look forward to your future videos then. Wish you luck Dr Dave.

[@dervish816]

@Kikimo Mikuto that will be near impossible. According to Efren himself, his prime was during the 70's when competitions in the Philippines would always ban him and wouldn't play him prompting him to learn carom and play it for 5yrs then carom competitions also started banning him. Ridiculous.

[@alexasuncion764]

It's the greatest shot considering the score and the risk he took. I consider it even an insult that he is referred to as "The Magician." It's no Magic or a lucky shot. Efren has tons of practice, a true genius and risk taker which made him the greatest.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@landorsavage]

Strickland: "I played all of them, he's(Efren) the greatest...." So it wasn't in 2018 that Strickland said it first.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Nope. I’m sure he said it many times in the past when Efren was at his peak.

[@guirosasilva]

He plays against Sullivan too. So...Efrein is/was/will ever be the GOAT. Pool, snooker, the same to me.

[@jmgonzales7701]

@@guirosasilva wish pool would be more popular

[@KarlsCracklingCottonMouth]

I love every second of this video. You are the GOAT!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I also enjoyed putting this one together. Efren deserves the honor.

[@benpietrzykowski9216]

Love your love for pool. It’s awesome to watch

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I love that you love my love for pool. :)

[@LepraKhaaan]

it really is a hard comparison to the Chris Melling run out (there is a lot to that). This shot is what really made it become something to consider as a shot option than just a hit and hope for safe. which was Efren's plan. it is a great analysis and you didn't just a do a few attempts and call it good. 100 times? !?!?! dedication. Thanks Dr. Dave!! #Beat People with a Stick!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep. 100 attempts was a bit crazy, and my arm hurt the next morning, but it was worth it.

[@Blairezz98]

Respect goes to Efren and his legendary Z Shot. These brilliant billiard players are mathematicians. It's mesmerizing how they map it in their minds.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Efren has Pool Google Maps in his head! :)

[@edwindelfin6793]

That makes a true champion. Time he may F up,that makes him human but never gives up, never loose hope. still does his best to stand up and win

[@johnhernandez4763]

Difference between Efren Bata Reyes and trick shot masters is that, Efren does the trick shots in an actual match without editing the position of the balls. Truly a master / wizard of pool. The greatest pool player that ever lived!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Watch the video again where I clearly show that my ball layout matches Efren's very closely (too close to see any difference). The main purpose for the video ("Why EFREN'S Z-SHOT is so Legendary") is to show why the shot is one of the greatest of all time. Concerning why Efren is the GOAT, see my Efren Tribute video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iIK0pXd_rKh5rNk

[@rodellonesto1269]

4:57 laughed out loud when you said 'not the best option for mere mortals like us 😂

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sometimes honesty is funny. :) I’m glad you liked it.

[@marcmalmberg7029]

Dave there was a somewhat recent exhibition match between Corey Deuel and a younger pro or semipro player Abrin Schaad, long races, barbox 8 ball. Deuel had enough highlights from that match to fill a whole video. Not sure how accessible the footage is but I saw some wild highlights from it.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you find any footage online, please share the link(s), especially to super-impressive shots.

[@rebirthresurrection]

No doubt about the options you shared. great commentary btw.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. Thanks.

[@TSGOrgan]

When is the Dr. Dave vs. Torr Lowery 25k Match scheduled?

[@brandongrablachoff261]

2 great ambassadors who love pool. Was fortunate to be picked for Tor Lowry's 14 day challenge and had lessons during the Summer of 2014 in July at my own home table. 🎱

[@copperchode1977]

You are a badass when you have your opponent applauding you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. (especially when the applauding opponent is Earl!)

[@garathgreed6482]

Efren Bata Reyes is above human level... So you can't compare him to anyone... You wont see like him for the next 100years or 200...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I think you are right, but I hope we see many more Efrens sooner than that. I would be fun to watch.

[@JustCallMeLoathesome]

Big fan, Doc, I never miss a video. Quick question, isn't there copyright protection on the Jeopardy music? I only ask because you are typically very conscientious about muting the background if there's copyrighted music.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You are right. It probably isn't proper to use the Jeopardy theme without permission. I am a huge Jeopardy fan and see my usage as a tribute to Alex Trebek. But that excuse probably wouldn't fly in Copyright Court.

[@leizlsicad9222]

You heard it loud and clear right straight from the mouth of Earl "the pearl" Stirckland "I played them all, he's the greatest"..End of!!! Efren Reyes is the GOAT!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good summary!

[@Stonefalconetti]

Always love an Efren video..... - "After all this time?"... - "Always."

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Me too!

[@Iksmohj1]

Awesome video as always Dr.Dave.maybe you can make Efren appear on your next video with this famous trick shots?Stay safe always.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. That would be awesome to have an appearance from Efren, but that is not so easy to do.

[@Iksmohj1]

@@DrDaveBilliards you're gonna do just fine.just try to reach him.it's worth to try.Dr.Dave and The Magician?it would be awesome!looking forward to it😊stay safe!😊🙏

[@___Anakin.Skywalker]

@@DrDaveBilliards efran has terrible english. He can't articulate anything and you can't make anything of what he's saying so you needs a translator to talk to him. I brought my wife to talk to him when we visited his place. He was really nice and friendly but you can't understand anything he's saying

[@herbertnaive3431]

Now I know that shot became legendary..Nice analysis Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@ricmateo7246]

Mental toughness, skillset and experience were the keys to Efren’s success. Yes, you can replicate it but on how many tries? Efren did it with pressure throughout the game, not to mention it was on a hill-hill situation and against one of the best in the person of The Pearl!! In this case, Efren got only one chance. Make it or lose it. This is only one of those miracle shots he executed in his illustrious career. He is the GOAT indeed. Hands down!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@ricocapili6990]

You are right, hitting with another greatest player in pool in a hill - hill match cemented his nickname the MAGICIAN. But one night back then with old Jack English his trainer and cuetip maker Efren told me he intended to hit the rail closest to the ball and that is all needed and in case it won’t go in at least gives him a better chance than a ball in hand.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. He was just trying to get a hit. Pocketing the ball was lucky. But the better you are, the "luckier" you get.

[@antonnyo3694]

Everyone was talking about Efren's Z shot after more than two decades. That being said, people have studied that shot and players nowadays already have a more scientific approach to how to play the game compared to before. No matter what everyone says about that shot or if there was a better shot than the Z shot of Efren or if there were other shots available, we all cannot erase this history. Practice shots will always be practice shots. Easier said than done. But I agree with you. This Z shot is at #1.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@antonnyo3694]

@@DrDaveBilliards - yeah. He always say that. More than his talent and skill, Efren's humility is larger than his greatness in the game of pool.

[@dupreymartin1]

And that folks is what makes greatness like the KIMORA👍🏾

[@biongrenn8010]

There have been other shots that could be tossed in the conversation as to what is the single, most amazing professional, televised shot in pool history. But the guts to attempt this shot, and the nerves to make it, in a hill-hill situation, against an equally potent opponent, i could go on and on. Point is, with all these in mind, hands down, it doesn't get any better than this.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed, per all the other reasons in this video. See also my “Top 25 BEST POOL SHOTS of All Time” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6K3dHucf5p3rNU

[@sophiecepeda9744]

I 💯 agree with you analysis. Those who contradict you dont know anything about billiards/pool.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I guess great minds think alike. :)

[@karlzuerner1602]

Fascinating

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. I had fun making it.

[@naonao76]

I made Efren's Z shot during a match of 8 ball, making the 8 ball for the win. I was so proud! It's funny that you made this video the same day. 😂

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I've only tried an Efren-like Z-shot in a match once. I didn't pocket the ball, but it was close enough to impress my opponent (and me).

[@naonao76]

@@DrDaveBilliards I had tried it once before and it was close too. Thus, this time I wasn't expecting to make it at all, but it worked! There's a first time for everything I guess 😂 I'm glad I had my opponent as my witness lol. I wasn't playing to my own standards today but that shot made my whole day. I guess it was a sign from the pool Gods to remember to have fun while doing what you love.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@naonao76 The Pool Gods giveth at times and they taketh away at other times.

[@katazumitaizumi8934]

is there like different board size? i dont play pool but it kinda looks like ur board is wider, may be camera or perspective or idk

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The tables are the same standard size (standard 9x4.5), but the camera angles are different. That's why I drew the lines on the tables in the comparisons so it would be clear the balls are in the same places.

[@alyssavarner8474]

Hey DrDave! Great stuff as usual… out of curiosity you don’t happen to know the TDF of a standard blue label diamond bar box do you? A lot of APA players play on these and I really wish a google search would tell me because I’m not measuring at my local pool hall lol

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If I did, it would be here: forums.azbilliards.com/threads/table-difficulty-factor-tdf-for-measuring-table-toughness.324408/ Please consider taking the two simple measurements at the pool hall. If you send them to me, I will add the TDF info to the list.

[@alyssavarner8474]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks so much! Wow super fast reply, looks like a few people have entered them and they’re right about average. I’ll try to take a few measurements just to add to the data.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sometimes factory specs are changed when cushions are replaced. Some people get their tables modified on purpose to make them play easier or harder than normal.

[@ocivdelos2335]

that's why pool is very entertaining and fun to play, you can be creative as much as you want to be. there are many ways to pot that ball

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@Payton_b2008]

Hey Dr. Dave, what are your thoughts to the new break rules that will be applied to the European open?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

9-on-the-spot, breaking from the box, on a table with tight pockets, is probably the best choice for top pro 9-ball tournaments.

[@hunasyo1]

Agree on your list

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Me too! :)

[@mjaradat8544]

You're legendary Dr dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That is kind of you. Thank you.

[@zanethind]

I agree that Efren's Z shot is number 1 it's the most amazing shot and trickshot in history of pool also he did it in amazing race to 12 match with Earl being the best too and Efren decided to go offensive instead of playing a defence or a different shot to win the rack

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Obviously, I agree! :)

[@zanethind]

​@@DrDaveBilliards 👍

[@jaggernaut100980]

1st, You wouldn't thought of this "alternative ways making Z-shot" if you haven't seen it during the game of Efren. 2nd, Efren did that Z-shot during a LEGIT FINALS POOL GAME and not just for a video blog. So Efren did that thing with pressure.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

1st, most good players know all these shots and the shots have been known long before Efren. 2nd, you are right that only the GOAT can use them effectively in critical match moments like these. That's the main point of the video ("Why EFREN'S Z-SHOT is so Legendary"). See also my Efren Tribute video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iIK0pXd_rKh5rNk

[@rainieresguerra-uw7on]

The audience certainly got their money's worth.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@mayorb3366]

I was an avid shooter for many years. Never had too much to brag about, but made some insane shots. (As we all have). But I always wished there was a device to reset balls exactly as they had been before a shot.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Such a device is possible, but it would be very expensive.

[@mr787takium9]

Let's agree to disagree if people's thinks it's not the best it's there's words but if its the best for you then it's for you to say. it justreally depends on person perspective view on billiards.

[@Ayohhh13]

This is how greatness are made.... Do or die just take the shot

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@GhostFhoenix]

Tiny angle differences will have humongous results and making safety at a high level game is exponentially risky at the later sets.

[@arnelpijuan7618]

I agree with you 100%

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Me too. ;)

[@babytacprimo]

In short....you explained, Efren chooses to mark a history rather than cashing out...🤣✌️ Great detailed analysis + allowing viewers to give people some thoughts

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you and others have enjoyed it.

[@nunyabiznes33]

The setting of the video is sending me to a different dimension.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Is it because of the lines drawn to show the consistent ball placements in parallel universes? :)

[@nunyabiznes33]

@@DrDaveBilliards actually, it's the carpet...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@nunyabiznes33 Could you explain?

[@nunyabiznes33]

@@DrDaveBilliards it's sending me to the 80s or something. 🤣 I feel like reading comments in 80s remixes, every time I see something that look 80s I feel like it's an alternate reality.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@nunyabiznes33 The carpet isn't that old. It is great for a pool room. It is comfortable to walk and stand on, it keeps the sound down, it is gentle on dropped balls or cues, and dropped or jumped-off-the-table balls don't do any damage to the floor.

[@uberhikari]

I think your bending kick alternative is probably easier. However, I think Efren is known for his cross-rail kick shots. At the time he probably just did what felt intuitive to him.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We’ll stated. I agree.

[@MysticRose99]

Filipinos are more intuitive players than their Western counterpart which is more calculative. But with Efren, he uses both intuitive and calculative that's why he is the GOAT. :D

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@MysticRose99 Efren uses everything, and he does so masterfully.

[@MysticRose99]

@@DrDaveBilliards hehehehe... true!

[@popandroid]

I made a shot like this once, it was one of those you 'call' just to call something, cause it MIGHT happen haha, and when/if it actually does, you look like the most amazing pool shooter in the world...BUT that's what makes pool fun.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Almost everybody has had "highlight reel" shots (lucky or not) in their past. That's too bad we can't have them all in video like with many of the top pro shots.

[@bernarddelossantos8083]

it is a YOLO moment, that's why I agree for you choosing it top 1.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

One of the best "moments" in pool history.

[@JovenAlbarida]

Sir, Whats the purpose of the dot on your table?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/training/teaching/

[@mackykintanar7489]

Players after Efren are making the Z because they already know its doable. Imagine the pressure on Efren when he decided to execute it on a hill-hill situation in a tournament.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point.

[@reezabaca]

The side by side layout may be similar but it was very inaccurately portraying the closeness of the balls. As you can see the cue ball, on Efrens table was very close to the nearest ball compared to your layout. That in itself is the biggest takeaway to how far off you are. You can try to revisit it and see if you can reposition the balls closer together and then take the bending kick option.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Look at all the lines in the side-by-side comparison again. The camera views are very different, but the ball placements are accurate. The clearance on the left side of the 6 is definitely the same.

[@PinoyGuitarTutorials]

@@DrDaveBilliards why you did not mimic the camera view also? I think your camera was set wide.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@PinoyGuitarTutorials I tried to, but it was not possible in my room with my camera lens. I also like the view I have better since it shows the ball spacing and the shots more clearly. Regardless, all the lines I drew make everything clear in both views.

[@harolddasynth795]

Nowadays,lots of pool players can make that Z shot but what made that shot even harder is the pressure that comes with it,score are tied and Efren made a big gamble,had he missed that shot,more likely he could've lost,that's what made Efren one of the greatest if not the greatest...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Definitely a signature GOAT moment.

[@eggplant9479]

🇵🇭WOW ANG GALING💪

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@hatesitrick]

Dude you know way more than I do about pool, but I don't understand how this comes above Chris Melling's run out though. Chris Melling pulled off 3 of the greatest shots ever, and the last one to get on the 8 ball was more impressive that Efren's shot. Way more cushions and way more balls to avoid in the process, after having called the pocket. I don't understand. Just because of the importance of Efren's shot? because it was hill-hill? The Chris Melling thing is something we're never going to see again. Also I'm super happy you included Jimmy White's shot, I'm guessing you're on about the 5-9 kick to make it hill-hill against Efren. I think that deserves to be higher up though. Such a hard shot to pull off with that pace!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The decision between Efren and Chris was tough, but I think I made a pretty good case in this video. I agree that I should have ranked Jimmy's shot higher. I think I was influenced by the fact he is a snooker player (and not a pool legend).

[@sonnymanagbanag9946]

Its what you called a Good Karma Shot by Efren.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

After Earl's great reaction, he also deserves a little good Karma to offset some of his many other bad-Karma behaviors over the years.

[@lannzbatalla255]

You only get the idea and options after mr. Reyes pocketed the shot. Thats why he is amazing

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@otekdurante9660]

You're no magician but you are are really good, brother.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@jhun334]

what about the speed of the cloth, was that taken into consideration?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... for the bending kick? A slicker cloth would require less speed, and a less-slick cloth would require more speed, but similar action should be possible on both (within limits). My cloth is Simonis 860HR. I don't know what was on the table for Efren's match, but I suspect it was similar.

[@jhun334]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks for the reply, will humidity play a part on how a table plays, since it was done on a tournament table , the exact playing condition of the table might be slightly different.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@jhun334 Agreed. Cloth and cushion conditions have big effects and require judgement on shots like the Z and bending kicks. FYI, for more info about humidity effects, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/table/humidity-effects/

[@emekdulgeroglu3914]

In order to compare with bending kick, would you try 100 times for the z shot too? :)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The 22 times it took me to make it once was enough for me.

[@markkindsvatter3058]

I always wondered why he didnt go to the left with the Z shot, since the 7 isnt in the way that route.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The direction he chose is a little more "natural" and the 7 wasn't really in the way at all (for Efren anyway).

[@arc-sd8sk]

the only time I ever made a z-shot was when I yelled over to my friend "hey watch this I'm Efren" and sloppily one-stroked it super fast just for fun because I assumed I was gonna miss nope, drilled it right in LOL I bet I'll never make one again haha

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... don't you wish you had it on video, like Efren?

[@arc-sd8sk]

@@DrDaveBilliards You have no idea! It was perfect! Would have made a great clip for the highlight reel, that's for sure hahaha

[@rjsantos8929]

the thing is, Efren Reyes inspired a lot of great pool players. some of them admitted that they started playing pool after they saw that famous Z shot!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He has inspired players for decades, but the Z-shot was definitely special.

[@ChonkyBoi_yt]

the GOAT

[@DrDaveBilliards]

… without a doubt.

[@edwindelfin6793]

Your shot choices is equality good. This just proved wht the games comentators always say. Filipino pool players have different play style from westerns

[@timothybolshaw]

You mention that your cushions are quite slow. To me, it seems that would be a factor (along with the general characteristics of the cloth) on whether the swerve kick would be possible. I would be really interested in Efren's comments on that option. Efren is one of the best there has ever been at that kind of swerve shot, and I am surprised he would not choose it, if it was on.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It was on, but there honestly wasn't a lot of clearance past that 7. Maybe that concerned him.

[@jimgilbert9984]

Disney made a movie starring Donald Duck called "Mathmagicland." It shows how Math is everywhere: Nature, architecture, art, music, machines, games, etc. In the games section, it had billiards, and it showed how experts used the diamonds on the edges of the table combined with Math to pull off amazing and seemingly impossible shots. I was an elementary school teacher. When I was a regular classroom teacher, I would show the movie to my class in the second week of the school year each year. When I was the Science Lab Teacher (like PE, Art, and Music; the whole school, K-5, would come to my lab for hands-on, fun Science activities), I would show it near the beginning of the school year to the whole school in the hope that the kids would find a new interest in Math when they returned to their homeroom teachers. I could do this because Math is a part of Science, even in elementary school.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, a link to the "MathMagicLand" video, along with lots of other cool pool physics stuff, can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/physics/learning-resources/ Enjoy!