Rain or Shine has bid goodbye to James Yap.
The Elasto Painters on Monday expressed gratitude to the two-time PBA MVP, who spent the last eight years with the franchise formerly known as Welcoat.
“From his early days with Welcoat in the PBL to becoming an integral part of the Rain or Shine family in the PBA, James Yap has left an indelible mark on our franchise,” read the statement posted across their social media pages.
“We look forward to the legacy you will continue to build in the next games of your life. A million thanks is not enough to express our gratitude.”
Yap had his last game with RoS last January 19 – a 127-122 loss to the twice-to-beat San Miguel in the Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.
He was sought for comment as to what’s next for him but the 41-year-old, who’s presently serving as a councilor in San Juan, said that he hasn’t decided yet.
Yap was traded to the Elasto Painters by the Purefoods franchise back in 2016 and his playing time dwindled through the seasons.
The seven-time PBA champion even took a break for months to focus on his councilorship bid in San Juan, in which he was successful.
He then signed a one-conference deal prior to the 2023 Governors’ Cup back in March, and had since played – albeit spot minutes.
Now, there’s a possibility that he could sign with another PBA team, according to reports, after being released by the ball club.