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Jimmy Alapag pens touching love letter to the Philippines after moving to US
Many basketball fans were heartbroken after hearing about Jimmy Alapag's decision to move to the United States with his family.
The former Gilas Pilipinas captain cemented his legacy as a hoops hero after leading the national team to a historic FIBA World Cup appearance in 2014.
On Sunday, it was Jimmy's turn to pay tribute to the country that embraced him as the "Mighty Mouse" throughout his career.
"Hard to put into words the love I have for the Philippines. It's been an incredible journey, and an experience that has been nothing but a blessing on my life," he said on Instagram.
He fondly looked back on his transformation from a "young, naive kid" to a "man who fulfilled a life long dream."
Born and raised in California, Jimmy moved to the Philippines after being selected 10th overall in the 2003 PBA draft.
He went on to win six championships with the Talk 'N Text franchise, bag a Most Valuable Player trophy, and etch his name in the record books as the league's all-time leader for three-point field goals.
But he is best known for his brilliant performances in the international stage, helping Gilas beat Korea in 2013 and valiantly leading the team in the World Cup the following year.
READ: How Jimmy Alapag inspires basketball dreams all the way to Argentina
"So many amazing memories.. so many incredible people whose impact on my life will last a lifetime," he said.
Jimmy said, however, that his departure does not mean a goodbye, just a "see you again soon."
"As the past months have shown, sometimes our lives can take unexpected turns toward a path of struggle, doubt and uncertainty," he said. "But these times also give us a chance, a chance to learn more, grow more, and value what means most to us in our lives."
"Not sure what lies ahead, but we have absolute trust and faith in God's plans for our family. A new season, a new chapter. But no matter where this new path leads us, our heart will always be here in the [Philippines]," he added.
Meanwhile, former Gilas head coach Chot Reyes also paid tribute to his trusted floor general in an Instagram post.
"Sending all my best to you, Jim on the next chapter," he said. "Thank you for teaching me a lot about leadership, but most of all, Thank you for your friendship and your [heart]."
—MGP, GMA News
