Turning 37, James Yap wishes for first PBA title with Rain or Shine

BIG GAME. Already in the twilight of his career, James Yap says he still has plenty of gas left in the tank. Photo from PBA Images

MANILA, Philippines – James Yap is no stranger to winning a championship. After all, he has a ton of it, having won 7 PBA titles under the Purefoods franchise.

But as he turns 37 on February 15, the two-time Most Valuable Player has one wish: to bag his first championship with Rain or Shine.

"Sana mag-champion kami as a Rain or Shine player naman," he told reporters after their 75-74 win over former team Magnolia in their 2019 Philippine Cup clash on Wednesday, February 13.

(I wish I can win a championship as a Rain or Shine player.)

It has been more than 4 years since Yap last captured a title, back when he helped the San Mig Super Coffee Mixers complete a rare Grand Slam by ruling the 2014 Governors' Cup.

Since he was traded to the Elasto Painters in 2016, though, the sweet-shooting guard has never reached the finals again.

But with a resurgence in his game and Rain or Shine boasting a league-best 7-1 record, Yap's wish just might come to fruition should they maintain their fiery form.

"Ito 'yung isa sa mga magandang gift: 7-1, No. 1 kami ngayon and magbe-birthday," he said.

(This is one of the best gifts I received: we're up 7-1, we're No. 1 and it's almost my birthday.)

Although now in the twilight of his career, Yap assured he still has plenty of gas left in the tank, proven by averaging a team-best 14.8 points on a 40% shooting this conference.

"Okay pa naman. Kayang kayang kaya pa naman. Alaga lang sa katawan."

(I'm okay. I can still play. I just need to take care of my body.) – Rappler.com