James Yap to make PBA comeback, set to play for Rain or Shine in Governors' Cup

Big Game James is back in the PBA.

Decorated basketball icon James Yap is making a comeback to the big stage as he is set to don the Rain or Shine jersey anew in the upcoming Governors' Cup next month, the team announced on Friday. 

According to the Elasto Painters, Yap was initially offered to sign a one-year deal but opted to play for just one conference as the 40-year-old sniper is also serving as a councilor for the city of San Juan. 

"Big Game is back for more!" the team said in a Facebook post.

"James Yap is officially back with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and will play in the upcoming Governor's Cup. James was offered a one-year deal, but he opted to sign for one conference only. Yap says that he will do his best to balance basketball and public service."

Yap, a two-time league MVP, hasn't played since the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup in the Bacolor bubble. In Rain or Shine, Yap will play under seasoned coach in Yeng Guiao and will play alongside a mixture of young guns and veterans in Beau Belga, Rey Nambatac, Gabe Norwood, Gian Mamuyac, Mike Nieto, and Shaun Ildefonso.

Rain or Shine managed to enter the playoffs of the ongoing Commissioner's Cup but stumbled against Bay Area in their quarterfinals showdown.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News