CHICAGO - "Parting is such sweet sorrow," so says a line from the William Shakespeare classic Romeo and Juliet.
That saying couldn't be truer for high-leaping hooper Rhenz Abando who bid farewell to the Anyang JKJ Red Boosters of the KBL on Thursday.
While the former UAAP and UST star feels a tinge of sadness over potentially leaving Korea and setting aside nearly two years worth of memories, the 6-foot-2, 157-pound wing is excited about what the future holds.
READ Rhenz Abando bids KBL team Anyang JKJ Red Boosters goodbye
"There was an opportunity for him to come back, but Rhenz chose to explore his options with other leagues," FIBA-accredited agent Marvin Espiritu told me in a telephone interview.
Playing for a talent-rich Anyang squad that won the title in 2023, Abando shone this season with a solid average of 9.9 points and 4.3 rebounds in 24.7 minutes of play.
A freakish athlete with a reliable mid-range and above-the-rim game, Abando has the skill-set and defensive tenacity to play in China, the Japan B.League and the NBL in Australia.
READY FOR RED, WHITE AND BLUE.
In fact, had his calendar been more favorable, he would have taken the shot at joining an NBA mini camp.
For now, though, Abando's fondest wish is to get a call-up from Gilas Pilipinas for the upcoming Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia.
The 26-year old Abando was an invaluable piece for Gilas in the FIBA World Cup 2023. He was an energizer on defense while doubling as an offensive threat. He yearns to reprise that dual role.
"He's ready, if needed," Espiritu said of Abando, who is currently in the Philippines to rest and recharge.
GINEBRA AT THE CROSSROADS.
On the heels of their 87-80 Game Three loss to Meralco on Wednesday, Ginebra coach Tim Cone lamented about several factors including being "outcoached."
I disagree.
Cone is still at the peak of his powers and remains the king of the PBA.
Against the Bolts, the Gins simply do not have the pieces after losing two athletic wings in Jamie Malonzo and Jeremiah Gray.
Beyond that, some of their old reliables are starting to get up there in age.
Japeth Aguilar and Stanley Pringle are both 37 while L.A. Tenorio is 39. It's not helping that Scottie Thompson is struggling with his shots while playing out of position at point guard.
Ginebra is vulnerable like they're never been, and Meralco is eager to exorcise the ghost of the Gin Kings that have haunted them for several past conferences.
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