James White showed up prior to the Mahindra-Star match on Wednesday afternoon at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum, and even made his way onto the playing court, having little conversations with his teammates.
But this time, White was not in uniform. He was clad in his usual black shirt, jeans, and a pair of Yeezy 350s. His teammates had already made their way back to the dugout, but White did not. He instead went to the patron seats, sitting beside fellow import Jameel McKay.
It was then clear that the 23-year-old out of Jonesboro, Michigan has played his final game last March 29, and will not be suiting up for the Floodbuster for the rest of the tournament, ending a relationship that started last 2016.
For four games, the Georgia Tech product was able to provide what was needed from him. He posted norms of 30.5 points, 18.5 boards, 2.5 blocks, 1.0 assists, and 0.8 steal in 40.8 minutes, but unfortunately, Mahindra still remained below the standings with a 1-3 card.
The Floodbuster are now ready to move on, as their new reinforcement — former NBA D-Leaguer Keith Wright — will make his debut for them also this day. But despite the sudden exit, White is nothing but thankful to Mahindra.
“It was kinda shocking, but it’s part of the business of basketball. I’m just thankful of the opportunity they gave me to play and do what I love,” said White.
“It was a blessing. They took a chance on me the first time I went out in the Governor’s Cup — [I was a] 22-year-old [back then], I grew, got my confidence level up. It’s all a blessing from God.”
As he now bids goodbye to his first-ever professional team after going out of college, White hopes for future success for the Floodbuster, even if it means they do it without him.
“It’s all love. I wish them nothing but the best. At the end of the day, it’s always gonna be family,” said White.
Asked what is next for him, White replied that he is still not certain, saying that he is going to maximize first the free time he has now by spending more time with himself.
“I’m just gonna rest my body up, and look for future plans when I get back to the States,” White said.
And with regards to a PBA comeback next time, White voiced that such matters are not in his hands.
“I don’t know yet. That’s not in my control. It’s in God’s hands. I just gotta do what I do, and that is to work on my game and get stronger,” White concluded
