By MARK REY MONTEJO
High-flying guard Rhenz Abando has parted ways with Anyang KGC – his team for two seasons at the Korean Basketball League (KBL) where he made a name leading to his selection in the Gilas Pilipinas squad.
He announced the sad news on his social media Thursday, May 23, but did not detail his plans whether to play in the PBA or Japan B.League.
In his rookie year, Abando, 26, made heads turn after helping the Red Boosters dethrone the Seoul SK Knights in seven games, what with his aerial acrobatics.
Still, the La Union pride expressed his deep gratitude to Anyang for giving him the opportunity to grow and hone his skills further.
“To Red Boosters, thank you for giving me the chance to let me showcase my talent and passion for the game. Thank you for trusting me,” Abando wrote.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for you and not because of the opportunity that you’ve given me, I would not receive this kind of respect that I experience nowadays,” he added.
The NCAA Rookie of the Year and MVP also thanked his teammates, trainers and everybody who supported him while he was abroad.
“And to my trainers, translators and teammates, who have become my family for the past two years, I am grateful to all of you and I cherish every moment with all of you. I am thankful for all the learning that you’ve instilled in me, not only on the court, but most importantly, off the court,”
Abando didn’t forget to show his appreciation to his Filipino fans especially to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) who took time to watch him play in flesh despite hard conditions and work hours conflicts.
“And to all the Filipinos who supported me most especially to the OFWs in South Korea, thank you so much for supporting me most especially during workdays, even though you guys still have work you always made time to watch our games. You guys made me feel that I am not alone and I hope I made all of you proud.”
Gradually healing from a spinal injury he sustained last year, the 6-foot-2 cager didn’t mention what his next move would be for the upcoming months.
“It was a great two-year ride. It was like a roller-coaster ride with a lot of ups and downs. But nonetheless, I learned a lot. Until we meet again, your JKJ Redbooster No. 12, now signing off,” he concluded.
Abando was seen rooting for his alma mater – UST – during its game against NU in the UAAP Women’s Volleyball Finals last week.
