By REYNALD MAGALLON
Rain or Shine is set to retire the No. 18 jersey number of James Yap, the team announced on Wednesday, Jan. 31.
Expressing its gratitude to the contributions of Yap, who played for the team in the amateur ranks and suited for Raymond Yu and Terry Que-owned franchise in the PBA, the Elasto Painters are hoping to pay tribute to the legacy of the two-time Most Valuable Player with the team.
“As a courtesy and respect to him, our team will retire his jersey number, #18.
He will forever be a part of the culture and family of Rain or Shine,” said Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao in a statement.
The move came at the heels of Yap’s release at his request although both camps amicably parted ways.
“We are very thankful for James and his service to the franchise. His influence on the character and development of the team, especially the young players, is irreplaceable,” said Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao in a statement.
“But there will always come a time when we must reflect on how the team can move forward with its young core. And we’re thankful that James has paved the way for the next generation of players who deserve the limelight and the opportunities to grow,” he added.
Guiao added that while Father Time has certainly caught up with Yap, the 41-year-old guard remained serviceable to any team he opts to join in what could be his last dance in the league.
“Nonetheless, he is still a very serviceable player and can play good years for any team if he desires to. Even in his latter years, he has proven to be a potent factor for a team that requires his skillset and experience,” said Guiao.
“It will be up to his wise judgment to continue playing the game he loves or to focus on his blooming political career,” he furthered.
Yap’s No.18 jersey will be the first number to be retired by the franchise.
