Rain or Shine’s Norwood announces PBA Season 50 will be his last

MANILA, Philippines — One last flight for “Mr. President”.

Rain or Shine wing Gabe Norwood will be retiring after the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup, he announced Thursday.

The 40-year-old Norwood, who has played for Rain or Shine since 2008, announced the news through an Instagram video posted by the Elasto Painters’ social media team.

Norwood, also a longtime member of Gilas Pilipinas, looked back on his career, which started in his four-year stint with George Mason University in the US NCAA.

“The journey has been nothing short of incredible. I poured everything I had into this game, and in return it has given me more than I could ever ask for – the unforgettable moments on the court, the battles won and lost, the lifelong friendships, the love of the fans, and above all a family,” he said in the video.

“That's why today I want to share with you all that this upcoming Philippine Cup will be my last. One last conference, one last run, one last flight,” he added.

The 6-foot-6 Norwood, who has won two PBA championships and is an 11-time All-Star, is known for his basketball IQ, defensive chops and athleticism.

He was a Defensive Player of the Year and a seven-time member of the PBA All-Defensive Team.

He was a fixture in several Gilas teams, which competed in the FIBA Asia Cup, FIBA World Cup and William Jones Cup.

Last season, Norwood averaged 3.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game in 49 games played. The Elasto Painters reached the semifinals in all three conferences.

The player’s retirement tour will tip off this weekend, as Rain or Shine takes on the Meralco on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Montalban.