JIMMY Alapag paid tribute to his former TNT teammate Ranidel de Ocampo following his reitrement, calling him a player that revolutionized the ‘Stretch 4’ position in the PBA.
In a post on Instagram, Alapag congratulated De Ocampo on his retirement which he announced on Monday, ending a career that began in 2004 with FedEx before playing for TNT and Meralco.
“To my former teammate, great friend, and brother @teamrdo Congratulations on a Hall of Fame career!! Feel honored to have witnessed up close all the great things you did in the PBA and the National Team,” wrote Alapag.
Alapag said De Ocampo transformed the power forward position with his skill set.
“You revolutionized the ‘Stretch 4’ position with your ability to post up, attack above the rim, and consistently hit shots from three,” added Alapag, who called De Ocampo as ‘RaniDirk.’
Alapag was obviously referring to now-retired Dallas Mavericks superstar Dirk Nowitzki, who also did moves in the power forward position that was never seen before in the NBA.
Alapag became De Ocampo’s teammate with TNT from 2008 to 2015 with the Tropang Texters. Together, they won five PBA titles before Alapag was traded to Meralco. De Ocampo was later moved to the Bolts as well in 2017.
Aside from his skills, Alapag said De Ocampo’s leadership skills is perhaps one little-known aspect as a player. The San Miguel Alab Pilipinas coach added De Ocampo’s humor also rubs off the team.
“But not many people know the type of leader you were, always being a great example to the team. Always one of the first guys in the gym, and last to leave. And still knowing when to keep things light with the jokes when we all needed them,” said Alapag.
“The game will miss you Del! Congrats again pre,” added Alapag, calling De Ocampo as having a Hall of Fame career.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph