With two key players gone in separate pre-season dealings, keeping versatile forward Gabe Norwood was one of the priorities of Rain or Shine management for the 42nd PBA season.
The two sides finally came to terms as the defensive specialist inked a two-year contract to stay, giving the Elasto Painters a nearly intact roster that is expected to contend for a title.
“We are very happy to have Gabe,” said Edison Oribiana, the team’s alternate governor, hours after management met with Norwood at the team’s head office in Pasig City.
“With him signing for the next two years, we have one key player that helped us capture two PBA titles and will continue to provide the leadership for us to stay in title contention,” added Oribiana.
The team is no longer with ace guard Paul Lee and veteran center JR Quiñahan.
Lee was shipped to the Star Hotshots in a one-on-one trade for two-time MVP James Yap.
Quiñahan, on the other hand, was sent to Globalport for forward Jay Washington.
