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Rafi Reavis ends 16-year stint with Magnolia
After 16 years, Magnolia and Rafi Reavis are going their separate ways, with the club releasing the veteran big man ahead of the new era it is set to begin in PBA Season 50 later this year.
The Hotshots announced the development on Saturday as the 48-year-old Reavis closed out his tenure with Magnolia — the franchise he helped lead to multiple PBA titles, including a rare Grand Slam feat more than a decade ago.
"16 years together, you and I. We are grateful to have learned from you and to have been part of your life. You will always be a part of ours," the team said in an Instagram post.
"It’s an honor to have played alongside you. We wish you all the best, and we are very much excited for you as you take on the next chapter of your career. Thank you, Capt Rafi!"
The 6-foot-8 Reavis, the second overall pick in the 2002 draft by Coca-Cola, was acquired by the Magnolia franchise in 2009 through a three-team trade that also involved Barangay Ginebra and Burger King.
He would go on to play for the team for the next 16 years, helping the organization secure seven championships, highlighted by the Grand Slam run in 2014, where he teamed up with the likes of James Yap, PJ Simon, Marc Pingris, and then-head coach Tim Cone.
Reavis last suited up for the Hotshots in the recent Season 49 Philippine Cup, where the squad squandered a twice-to-beat advantage against TNT in the quarterfinals.
It remains unclear, however, whether the seasoned center will retire or sign with another team to continue his professional career.
The announcement came just weeks after Magnolia appointed LA Tenorio as its new head coach, replacing longtime mentor Chito Victolero. With Tenorio ushering in a new chapter, the Hotshots are making significant changes as they aim to return to championship contention in the upcoming PBA Season 50.
—Bea Micaller/JKC, GMA Integrated News
