Everything has been uncertain for Jamie Malonzo over the past few months.
Just days before the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 tipped off, Malonzo — whose contract with Ginebra had just expired — signed with B.League club Kyoto Hannaryz. But his stint in Japan was short-lived, lasting only five games before he was released.
Since then, little has been certain for the 29-year-old Filipino-American. A PBA rule prevents him from returning to Ginebra for the next three years, and Tim Cone, his former coach with the Gin Kings, did not suit him up for Window 1 of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Yet if there is one thing Malonzo is certain about, it is never saying no to the country.
“No matter what, I’m happy to be a part of whatever team I’m on. It’s just an amazing feeling,” said Malonzo, who noted that joining Gilas Men for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games was not even advised by his agent.
“I’ll never say no to the country.”
Throughout the SEA Games, the 6-foot-7 forward was a consistent force for the ragtag Gilas team. He raised his game even higher in the playoffs. Against Indonesia in the semifinals, Malonzo contributed 13 points, three rebounds, one steal, and one block, fueling the hustle plays that kept Gilas in control.
The final against Thailand was when he truly shone. After a slow start in the first half, Gilas leaned on Malonzo in the fourth quarter. A crucial three-pointer and a clutch drive gave the Philippines a 67-55 lead with 4:16 remaining, paving the way for a 70-64 victory and the country’s 20th SEA Games gold medal.
“Just being aggressive. All of my teammates believed in me,” Malonzo said. “I think I had zero points at halftime, so just being able to bounce back and find a way — keep scratching to bring back this piece of gold and defend what the Philippines team did a few years back — it’s special.
“Finding ways to win is really what the Philippines is all about.”
After seven magical days in Bangkok, Malonzo has returned home, where uncertainty awaits once again.
“Of course, I’m just going to enjoy this first. Celebrate with my teammates. And then the work and the business comes after. We’re going to enjoy this tonight for sure,” he said.
Asked what’s next, he added, “It’s all in the works. I’m going to enjoy this and see what happens. Obviously, this is a big part of my journey.”
But one thing is certain: Jamie Malonzo is now part of Gilas Men history, and nothing can take that away.
“I’m happy that this is coming back to the Philippines,” he said, pointing to his gold medal.
