ALOHI Robins-Hardy would want to take more than a few pages off cousin Gabe Norwood’s career playbook now he’s decided to call it a career by the end of the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup.
When the Farm Fresh setter first heard the news, she knew for a fact that part of the Rain or Shine mainstay’s heart would be aching in closing the most beautiful chapter of his life playing basketball in the Philippines.
But with his loyalty to the Elasto Painters and to the game unmatched, Robins-Hardy can proudly say that her cousin’s career has ran its purposeful course and can now end on his own terms.
“He doesn’t look like he ever changed. I just am super proud of him,” Robins-Hardy told SPIN.ph. “He’s super loyal, 17 years with the same franchise. Just very versatile, he can play, he can coach, he’s got a very high IQ in basketball."
“I think that’s who he is and he’s very caring and loving. He’s definitely hurt, I’m sure, to leave and retire, but I think it’s his time. I’m excited for him.”
Gabe gave it his all
The Fil-American sporting duo had their time playing in their respective pro leagues, but also dabbled into the coaching scene for a time.
Norwood serves as playing-assistant coach at RoS starting the PBA 49th Season last year, while Robins-Hardy took on setting coach duties for the University of the Philippines before being drafted by the Foxies earlier this year.
Whichever side of the court it may be, Robins-Hardy, 29, hopes to emulate Norwood’s work ethic as far as his commitment to the craft goes.
“It’s just his determination to keep going, no matter where they go, no matter where they place,” she said. “They lost the last two semifinals I believe in the last two conferences, but he’s still working hard and he’s still working with the team in helping out in any way he can."
“That’s definitely what I would take from him: working hard and helping out my team in any way I possibly can.”
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