Rain or Shine to retire No. 18 to honor James Yap

In honor of James Yap, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters will retire his iconic jersey no. 18 following the announcement that the two parties have parted ways after eight years.

Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao bared the news on Wednesday as the franchise expressed its gratitude and respect to the decorated basketball star.

"We are very thankful for James and his service to the franchise. His influence on the character and development of the team, especially the young players, is irreplaceable," Guiao said in a team statement.

"As a courtesy and respect to him, our team will retire his jersey number, #18. He will forever be part of the culture and family of Rain or Shine."

The 41-year-old Yap, who has two PBA MVP and four Finals MVP plums under his belt, joined Rain or Shine in 2016 after being involved in a deal that traded him away from the Magnolia franchise in exchange for Paul Lee.

In September 2023, Yap signed a one-contract deal with the Elasto Painters to see action in the Commissioner's Cup, where the squad absorbed a quarterfinals exit after falling to San Miguel.

Guiao said Yap has paved the way for the next generation of young ballers.

"But there will always come a time when we must reflect on how the team can move forward with its young core. And we're thankful that James has paved the way for next generation of players who deserve the limelight and opportunities to grow," Guiao added.

"Nonetheless, he is still a very serviceable player and can play good years for any team if he desires to."

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News